🏘️Pro Tips for Recording Winning Video Tours

🏘️Pro Tips for Recording Winning Video Tours

Video tours are one of the most powerful tools in your leasing toolkit. They allow prospects to explore the space at their own pace, rewatch as often as they’d like (and you’ll get a push notification each time they do), and even share the video with family and friends. In this guide, we’ll share pro tips for recording winning video tours using SalesMail — so you can showcase your apartments with confidence and turn more views into signed leases.

🎬 Before You Start Recording

1. Plan Your Route

Start at the front door and move through the apartment in a smooth, logical order — just like an in-person tour. You can start by filming the door opening as you walk in, or begin with a brief intro of yourself on camera.
Pro Tip: The first 3 seconds of your video are used for the animated preview in emails. A smiling face and a simple gesture like a friendly wave can help grab attention and increase views.

2. Choose Between First-Person and Third-Person Style

First-Person (Camera Viewpoint):
You’re behind the camera, narrating as if the viewer is seeing through your eyes.

  1.  Feels immersive and personal
  2. Great for smaller spaces or solo filming
  3. Keeps the focus on the apartment

Third-Person (On-Camera Presenter):
Someone else records you as you lead the tour, speaking directly to the camera.

  1. Builds connection by showing your face
  2. More engaging if you're comfortable on camera
  3. Best when you have help filming

Both styles work well — choose what fits your comfort level and available resources.

3. Clean and Declutter

Make the apartment look tidy, spacious, and move-in ready.

  • Hide clutter, cords, trash cans, etc.

  • If filming the bathroom, close the toilet lid for a more polished look

4. Turn On All the Lights

Bright, well-lit spaces feel more inviting.

  • Open blinds

  • Turn on every light to reduce shadows and create a warm atmosphere

5. Prep Your Phone or Camera

  • Clean your camera lens

  • Turn on Do Not Disturb to avoid interruptions from calls or texts

  • Make sure your battery is charged and you have enough storage space

6. Choose Between Single-Clip and Multi-Clip Recording

Single-Clip
Great for a natural, walk-through feel — like someone is following you in real time. Ideal for smaller units and immersive tours.

Multi-Clip
Best for larger spaces or when you want to film different areas separately. Helps keep your video concise and lets you pause between segments.


🎥 While Recording

7. Keep It Steady and Slow

Hold your phone with both hands or use a stabilizer. Move at a consistent pace and avoid quick pans or jerky movements.

8. Narrate Like You’re Speaking to a Real Prospect

Speak clearly and confidently. Describe what the viewer is seeing, and highlight the benefits.
Example:

“Check out this view — you’ve got a clear line to the courtyard and pool area. Imagine having your morning coffee here!”

Be warm, positive, and engaging — your tone matters just as much as what you say.

9. Showcase the Best Features

Give extra attention to standout elements like views, proximity to amenities, nice appliances, etc.  

10. Include Room Transitions

Help the viewer stay oriented by narrating as you move:

“Now let’s head into the kitchen…”
These small cues keep the tour smooth and easy to follow.


🎧 After Recording

11. Review and Add Background Music (Optional)

Watch your video all the way through to check sound, lighting, and flow.


You can also add background music to give your tour a more polished feel — just make sure your voice is still clear. To add music, go to the Share screen in the SalesMail Portal and select from the available music tracks.

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