In Vancouver’s competitive real estate market, attention is currency. Buyers are scrolling more than ever, listings are fighting for visibility, and video has become one of the most powerful tools agents can use to stand out.
As a Vancouver real estate photographer and videographer, one of the most common questions I hear is whether vertical video for social media has replaced traditional horizontal listing videos. The answer is no — but the reason why matters.
Vertical videos get clicks.
Horizontal videos sell homes.
Understanding the role each format plays allows Vancouver agents to market listings more strategically and convert attention into real buyer interest.
Vertical Real Estate Videos Get Clicks Because They Match How Buyers Scroll
Most buyers don’t discover listings while sitting at a desk. They find them on their phones — scrolling Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts between meetings, on transit, or at night on the couch.
These platforms are designed for vertical video, and they reward content that fills the screen and keeps users watching. Vertical real estate videos feel native, immediate, and effortless to consume.
For Vancouver real estate marketing, vertical video works especially well for:
- Condo listings
- New builds
- View properties
- Lifestyle-focused neighbourhood clips
- Agent branding and teaser content
Vertical clips are not meant to show the entire home. Their job is to stop the scroll, create curiosity, and drive traffic to the full listing.
This is why many Vancouver real estate videographers now deliver vertical social clips alongside traditional listing videos. They serve different stages of the buyer journey.
You can see examples of this approach in action on our Vancouver real estate video services page:
http://wwagency.ca
Horizontal Video Sells Homes Because Buyers Need Context
Once a buyer becomes genuinely interested, their behaviour changes. They stop scrolling and start evaluating.
At this stage, clarity matters more than speed.
Horizontal real estate video allows buyers to understand:
- Room proportions
- Ceiling height
- Flow between spaces
- Natural light
- Relationship between interior and exterior areas
This is especially important in Vancouver, where square footage, layout efficiency, and light exposure heavily influence buying decisions.
Horizontal video is still the preferred format for:
- MLS listings
- Property websites
- YouTube home tours
- Desktop and large-screen viewing
A professional Vancouver real estate photographer prioritizes horizontal framing for the main walkthrough because it builds trust. Buyers are far more likely to book a showing when they feel they truly understand the space.
You can see how horizontal video supports full-property storytelling on our real estate photography and video portfolio:
http://wwagency.ca
Engagement and Conversion Are Not the Same Thing
A video with high views does not automatically translate into buyer action.
Vertical real estate video is excellent for top-of-funnel engagement. It introduces a property to new audiences and increases visibility, particularly on social platforms.
Horizontal real estate video supports bottom-of-funnel decision-making. It answers questions, removes uncertainty, and helps buyers visualize themselves living in the home.
The strongest Vancouver listing strategies use both formats intentionally instead of relying on one to do everything.
Why Vertical Video Performs So Well on Social Platforms
Vertical video performs well for three key reasons.
First, it fills the entire screen, which increases focus and watch time.
Second, it is typically short and digestible, aligning with modern attention spans.
Third, social media algorithms are built to reward vertical content that keeps users engaged.
For Vancouver agents looking to grow visibility, vertical video is no longer optional. When paired with professional real estate photography, it becomes a powerful brand-building tool that keeps agents top of mind.
Why Horizontal Video Builds Trust With Vancouver Buyers
Buying real estate in Vancouver is a major financial decision. Buyers are cautious, informed, and selective.
Horizontal video feels more cinematic and professional. Camera movement is smoother, compositions are intentional, and the home is presented honestly rather than sensationally.
As a Vancouver real estate videographer, this is the format that consistently leads to better-qualified inquiries and more serious buyers. It may generate fewer likes, but it generates confidence — and confidence drives showings.
One Shoot, Two Formats, Better Results
The most effective approach is not choosing between vertical and horizontal. It is planning for both.
A smart workflow looks like this:
- Capture a high-quality horizontal walkthrough as the core listing video
- Extract vertical clips from that footage for Instagram Reels, TikTok, and Shorts
- Use vertical content to drive viewers back to the full listing
This approach gives sellers maximum exposure without compromising how the home is presented.
When you work with a Vancouver real estate photographer and videographer who understands both formats, you get content that performs across every platform without needing multiple shoots.
Condos, Townhomes, and Luxury Listings Benefit the Most
Vertical video is especially effective for Vancouver condos and modern townhomes, where lifestyle, views, and finishes drive emotional interest.
Horizontal video remains essential for:
- Family homes
- Luxury properties
- View homes
- Unique architectural layouts
Using both formats ensures no buyer is lost due to lack of context or poor presentation.
The Bottom Line for Vancouver Sellers
Vertical real estate videos get clicks because they are built for how people scroll.
Horizontal real estate videos sell homes because they show space clearly, honestly, and professionally.
The most successful Vancouver listings use both — supported by high-quality photography and video that reflects the value of the property and the agent representing it.
For a deeper breakdown of how vertical and horizontal formats work together in real estate marketing, this guide offers helpful context:
https://imagtor.com/blogs/blog/vertical-vs-horizontal-real-estate-video-format
Call to Action for Sellers
If you’re selling a home in Vancouver and want marketing that does more than just look good online, professional video matters.
We provide Vancouver real estate photography and videography designed to:
- Capture attention on social media
- Build trust with serious buyers
- Increase showing requests
- Support stronger offers
View our work or book a shoot here:
http://wwagency.ca
WHITEWALL - Vancouver Real Estate Photographer 
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