When you’re selling a home, first impressions are critical. Today’s homebuyers begin their search online, where they’ll scroll through countless listings, often on mobile devices or laptops, looking for that one property that grabs their attention. As a result, it’s no longer just curb appeal that matters—it’s pix appeal. How your home looks in photos could be the deciding factor between whether a buyer clicks or moves on.
A study by VHT Studios, the nation’s largest real estate photography network, found that homes listed with professional photographs sold 32% faster than those without. The reason? High-quality photos attract more online views and result in a higher click-through rate, leading to faster decisions from potential buyers.
But professional real estate photography isn’t just about high-end homes—it’s essential for properties in every price range. Whether you’re listing a starter home or a luxury estate, professional photos can significantly reduce the time your property spends on the market. Chicago’s top agent, Leigh Marcus, shares, “High-quality photographs capture buyers’ attention, and that’s one reason why my clients’ homes sell faster than the competition.” It’s clear that in today’s fast-paced market, professional images can make all the difference.
Key Benefits of Professional Photography for Realtors® and Sellers
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Faster Sales: VHT Studios’ analysis found that homes photographed professionally spent an average of 89 days on the market, compared to 123 days for homes with lower-quality photos. That’s almost a month and a half shaved off the average time spent negotiating and waiting.
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Higher Perceived Value: A professionally photographed home looks more appealing to buyers and commands a higher perceived value. This can help minimize the back-and-forth in negotiations and create a quicker path to closing.
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Attracts Serious Buyers: Quality photos highlight a home’s best features, giving buyers a more accurate and enticing view. As time-crunched shoppers browse listings online, striking visuals compel them to visit in person—speeding up the buying cycle.
Tips for Taking Better Real Estate Photos
While professional photography is the ideal choice, there are steps you can take to improve your photos if you’re on a budget or selling without an agent. Here are some key tips to help you capture the best possible images:
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Invest in the Right Equipment: While smartphone cameras have come a long way, for high-quality photos, a digital SLR or a point-and-shoot camera with at least 5 megapixels is a better choice. A tripod can also help ensure sharp, stable shots.
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Stage Your Home: Clear out clutter, remove distractions like toys or refrigerator magnets, and create a clean, welcoming environment. A vase of fresh flowers or a neatly arranged bowl of fruit can add that extra touch of warmth.
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Let in Natural Light: Open curtains and turn on all available lights to brighten up each room. Natural light will make spaces look more open and inviting, while flash tends to create unflattering shadows.
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Choose the Best Angles: Shoot from the corners of rooms or from doorways to capture the maximum space. When photographing the exterior, aim for an angle that shows depth rather than a straight-on shot.
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Avoid Misleading Shots: It can be tempting to use a wide-angle lens to make a room appear bigger, but be careful not to mislead buyers. Present the space truthfully to avoid disappointed or frustrated potential buyers.
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Edit and Touch Up: After you’ve chosen the best shots, use photo editing tools to adjust lighting, remove distractions, or correct color. A small tweak can make a big difference in the final presentation.
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Create a Compelling Listing: Your photos are the first thing buyers will see, so make sure they’re showcased on a user-friendly, up-to-date website. Pair your photos with an engaging description that highlights the key selling points of your home.
The Bottom Line
With 80% of homebuyers starting their search online, your listing’s photos are your best chance to make a strong first impression. As real estate professionals, investing in high-quality photos can drastically improve your clients’ chances of selling quickly and for the best possible price. Whether you choose to hire a professional photographer or do it yourself, remember that a picture is worth more than a thousand words—it can be worth weeks off your time on market.
At Avanti Way Financial, we understand the importance of presenting your property in the best light. We’re here to support you throughout the selling process and ensure your home stands out to the right buyers.
Ready to get your home listed with high-quality photos? Contact us today, and let’s get started!
