According to RubyHome, real estate listings that include professional photographs sell 32% faster. The power of well-taken photos in the context of selling a house cannot be overstated. In an era where home buyers start their search online, the photos you include in your listing can make a massive difference in how potential buyers view your property. It is, in fact, these images that form the first impression of your space, acting as a compelling story that invites potential buyers to explore further.
Fast Facts about Real Estate Photography
- According to PhotoUp.net, a significant 72.2% of Realtors report that high-quality photography is a pivotal factor in winning more listings.
- For 83% of buyers, pictures are essential in deciding which homes they will consider visiting.
- A substantial 61.3% of brokers regard high-quality photography as 'crucial' for selling homes effectively.
- Listings with High Dynamic Range (HDR) photos not only sell 50% faster but also increase online views by an impressive 118%.
- Furthermore, homes showcased with drone or aerial photos sell at a notably faster rate—68% faster, to be precise.
Guidance for Capturing Selling Photos of Your Home
Simplify and Make it Impersonal
Before taking photos, it is vital to declutter and depersonalize your space. Remove personal belongings such as family photos and clear kitchen counters and bathroom counters of small appliances and personal items. This helps potential buyers envision themselves in your house, rather than feeling like visitors in your personal space. Imagine your home as a blank canvas, ready for potential buyers to paint their own dreams and memories on. It’s not just about removing items; it’s about creating an emotional space where others can imagine their future.
Trust the Professionals
Considering the use of a professional real estate photographer is a wise step. Their expertise, the right equipment, and post-production skills can elevate your listing photos to a professional standard, highlighting your home's features and increasing its appeal to potential buyers. These photographers understand the subtleties of lighting, the power of angles, and the art of composition to make your home not just seen, but truly stand out. They bring out the heart and soul of your property, crafting each shot as though it’s the cover of a prestigious magazine.
Highlighting the Bathroom Positively
Fresh flowers on the bathroom counter and well-placed light fixtures can make a big difference. These small touches make the space inviting and create images that help your property stand out online. Imagine the serene ambiance they create—a personal spa retreat that potential buyers will yearn for after a long day. These little details can be the gentle whisper that says, “This could be your sanctuary.”
Be Mindful of Weather
Schedule your photo shoot for a cloudy day or when the sun sets to achieve the best lighting—natural light that is soft and even. Overcast days are often ideal for exterior photos as they prevent harsh shadows and glaring bright spots. Timing your shoot for these moments is like aligning with the rhythm of nature itself, allowing your home to be seen in the most enchanting light possible.
Prioritize Photography over Decor
While a well-decorated room can be inviting, the focus of real estate photography should be on the entire room and its space, not just the decor. Use a wide-angle lens to capture more of the room, showing potential buyers what they could do with the space. It’s about selling potential, not just square footage. It's about helping buyers feel the freedom and possibilities that lie within these walls.
Windows: Clean and Clear for Natural Light
Clean windows are essential to emphasize natural light and show off potential views. They help in forming that crucial first impression, letting buyers imagine waking up in this space every day. It’s the golden morning light streaming through the glass, the cool breeze of a perfect evening—these are the subtle yet powerful details that turn a property into a dream home.
Feature the Highlights of the Home
Whether it’s a grand dining table or a charming front door, focus your photo shoot on your home's unique selling points. Photograph these features meticulously—they are your property’s unique story. They are the heartbeat of the home, and they deserve to be captured in a way that makes that heartbeat resonate with others.
Corner Shots for Depth and Perspective
Shooting photos from the corner of the room can make spaces appear larger and more inviting. This approach helps potential buyers get a sense of the room's size and layout. These corner shots are more than just photos; they are open arms, welcoming potential buyers into each space, offering them the perspective of a life well-lived in this cherished home.
Professional Versus Amateur Photography: Spotting the Differences
Professional real estate photography stands apart in terms of lighting, angles, and post-production. Professional photographers know how to take pictures of your house to sell, whereas cell phone photos often lack the depth, clarity, and composition that professionals bring to the table.
A Primer on Lighting: Timing Your Shoot
Light is the secret sauce in photography. Early morning or late afternoon—when the sun is not directly overhead—often provides the most flattering light. During these times, every room can look warm and inviting, adding to the home’s appeal.
Selecting Colors that Shine in Real Estate Images
Choosing neutral colors for your space can make a significant impact on how your photos turn out. Soft whites, light grays, and subtle beige tones create a blank canvas that appeals to a broad range of buyers.
About Susan Wisely
Susan Wisely, a top-ranking Realtor® with over two decades of experience, combines profound local market knowledge with an unwavering commitment to her clients, whether guiding sellers to showcase homes that command top dollar or assisting buyers in securing their dream homes. If you're looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the Virginia real estate market, contact Susan Wisely today.
*Header photo courtesy of Choose Wisely Group
