Houzz introduced new virtual meeting and visualization tools for Houzz Pro subscribers to help design and construction professionals move projects forward faster and more safely. The new features include the ability to host and promote video meetings and the addition of an augmented reality room measurement tool to create floor plans that pros can modify with the Houzz 3D floor planner tool.
Video meetings allow pros to connect with homeowners virtually to discuss a project from the safety and convenience of their own home. Pros also now have the ability to promote video consultations on their Houzz profile to help generate new business, according to Houzz. Houzz Pro subscribers can book meetings through the Houzz Pro scheduling tool and can add video capabilities to any meeting without purchasing or downloading video software.
“We’ve heard from our community of home professionals that they are looking for better ways to connect and interact with current and prospective clients during the coronavirus pandemic,” Alon Cohen, Houzz co-founder and president, said in a news release. “With video meetings, they can meet safely, save time and build rapport from a distance. And with powerful visualization tools, like the room measurement feature and 3D floor planner, pros can save time and help their clients envision how a space will look and feel post-renovation.”
The built-in room measurement tool within the Houzz Pro app uses augmented reality to enable pros to capture and store room dimensions and the tool can automatically generate both 2D and 3D models. The floor plans can be modified to include windows, doors, furniture, and other room features to scale.
Renovation and design platform Houzz launched Houzz Pro, an all-in-one software-as-a-service solution, in April. Houzz said the service helps remodeling and design professionals "stand out, win more clients, increase profits, and stay more connected with their clients and team." Houzz Pro software has a built-in messaging tool that aims to unify real-time chat and email communication with clients, and also has a built-in client dashboard to allow pros to share updates throughout a project. Houzz Pro also includes an estimate creation tool and a lead management tool. Houzz Pro is available at pro.houzz.com.
