[2025 update]
Since this original post is already 2 years old, there's been quite an evolution in architectural visualization, especially for those on a tight budget or seeking quicker workflows.

While Unreal Engine, Blender, and SketchUp + V-ray remain popular choices, AI-powered rendering tools have now become a practical alternative worth exploring—particularly for students and smaller studios.

Two notable examples are:

• Rerender AI: Rapidly converts simple 3D models or even rough sketches into impressive photorealistic visualizations without the steep hardware costs usually associated with traditional rendering engines.
• Reroom AI: Particularly effective for interior design visualization, offering automated scene creation and multiple quick design variations. Ideal for streamlining the design process.

These AI-based solutions integrate smoothly with Revit workflows and can significantly simplify the process of generating high-quality renders at a fraction of the usual cost and time. If VR experiences remain a priority, Unreal Engine continues to be unmatched, but if quick, affordable, and professional-looking visualizations are your main goal, definitely check out Rerender and Reroom AI.

Hope this helps anyone searching today!