Google Earth is a great tool for general mapping and geographic visualization, but when it comes to real estate marketing, pre-construction planning, and detailed property presentations, custom 3D modeling offers significant advantages. Custom 3D models provide a level of accuracy, detail, and interactivity that Google Earth simply cannot match.
Below, we’ll break down the key differences and why custom 3D modeling is the superior choice for real estate professionals, developers, and marketers.
Custom 3D Modeling vs. Google Earth Services
| Feature | Custom 3D Modeling | Google Earth Services |
|---|---|---|
| Detail & Accuracy | High-detail, accurate to exact property specifications, including architectural elements, landscaping, and materials. | Low-detail, often blurry and outdated images, lacking precision in architectural elements. |
| Customisation | Completely tailored—includes branding, design choices, furniture staging, lighting effects, and interactive elements. | No customisation—limited to what Google has captured, with no ability to add or edit features. |
| Up-to-Date Visuals | Models are created based on the latest property conditions, reflecting real-time designs. | Uses satellite imagery that may be several months or even years old, leading to outdated representations. |
| Pre-Construction Visualisation | Ideal for showcasing projects that are not yet built—perfect for developers and pre-sales marketing. | Cannot visualise unbuilt properties, limiting its use for future developments. |
| Interior Walkthroughs | Provides fully immersive virtual walkthroughs of interiors, including detailed room layouts, finishes, and furnishings. | No interior visualisation—only external, bird’s-eye views with no interior access. |
| Interactive Features | Viewers can interact with models, change viewpoints, explore different lighting conditions, and even customize elements. | Limited interactivity—users can zoom and rotate but have no control over specific elements. |
| Marketing & Branding | Models can be designed to fit your marketing strategy, include brand logos, and be optimised for social media, presentations, and websites. | No branding or marketing integration available. |
| Aerial & Ground-Level Perspectives | Includes realistic fly-throughs, walk-throughs, and multiple viewing angles. | Mostly limited to aerial perspectives, with street view limited to publicly available roads. |
| File Format & Integration | Custom models can be exported for VR, AR, websites, and real estate platforms. | Restricted to Google’s platform with limited export options. |
| Ownership & Control | Full ownership of the 3D model, allowing unlimited use in marketing, design, and presentations. | No ownership—Google Earth imagery belongs to Google and cannot be modified or repurposed for commercial use. |
Key Advantages of Custom 3D Modeling Over Google Earth
- Perfect for Marketing & Sales
- Custom 3D models showcase a property’s full potential—from luxury finishes to staged interiors—helping attract more buyers.
- Google Earth provides a generic, non-engaging view with no storytelling elements.
- Ideal for Pre-Construction & Developments
- Developers and investors can market projects before they are built, securing interest and funding.
- Google Earth cannot visualise future developments, limiting its use for new builds.
- More Control Over Property Presentation
- With custom 3D models, you can highlight specific features such as custom landscaping, renovations, or architectural upgrades.
- Google Earth does not update dynamically to reflect property changes or developments.
- Superior Quality & Realism
- Custom 3D models feature photorealistic textures, dynamic lighting, and accurate scale—creating a true-to-life representation.
- Google Earth’s images are pixelated, outdated, and low in detail.
- More Engaging Buyer Experience
- With interactive walkthroughs, interior tours, and customisable views, buyers get an immersive experience.
- Google Earth is static, offering only a general external view of a location.
Conclusion: Why Choose Custom 3D Modeling?
If you’re serious about elevating your property marketing, improving buyer engagement, and showcasing real estate with stunning accuracy, custom 3D modeling is the clear winner.
Custom 3D models are not just visual tools—they are powerful marketing assets that help real estate professionals, developers, and architects present properties in a way that Google Earth simply cannot compete with.
Interested in upgrading your real estate visuals?
Let’s discuss how custom 3D modeling can transform your listings and marketing strategy. Contact us today!