OnTheMarket Group says new functionality coming in the autumn will improve letting agents’ client relationships while generating leads and developing their pipelines. 

The latest updates will include Video Appraisals – in which users will be able to arrange live virtual valuation appointments with agents presenting relevant local information and comparable property prices – as well as Express Appraisal, where landlords or owner occupiers can arrange an online appraisal from local agents without the need of a home visit or a face-to-face Video Appraisal.

There will also be expanded agent profiles which – for agents who qualify – portal pages will now include additional information such as awards, testimonials, office hours, local area knowledge and amenities. 

In addition there will be WhatsApp integration where consumers can enquire about lettings properties   via the messaging service, plus additional property search filters allowing greater customisation of searches – so, for example, seeking pet friendly properties, accessible properties, student homes and a ‘greener choice’ filter for eco-properties.

Jason Tebb, chief executive of OnTheMarket, says: “Many of our developments aren’t only born from internal concepts but come from feedback we receive directly. For example, agents called for updates to be made to branch details pages to expand the information available on them and the integration of WhatsApp to the site was also requested to suit the evolving communication channels our agents use to connect with their clients. 

“Our consumer feedback is also important to us, so after taking on board requests to make search results more tailored to different needs, we’ve introduced multiple filter options. Having listened to both our agents and consumers, I’m incredibly proud we’ve been able to act on our feedback and deliver more to continue improving our offering.”   

Tebb says the Video Appraisal tool is designed to give consumers an understanding of their property value through conversations with local agents who are then able to present an informed valuation supported by a full market appraisal. 

The Express Appraisal feature is aimed at consumers who will settle for a personalised online valuation from local agents – the site users themselves submit information about their property, key features, its condition, as well as upload photos, giving the agent the information to prepare an estimate.