Selling a home in today's digital age means your house is on display 24/7. Online listings provide the first glimpse that potential buyers have of your property, and they can significantly impact whether someone will visit your home or move on to the next listing. As the saying goes, "A picture is worth a thousand words." In real estate, these words could mean the difference between a quick sale and months of languishing on the market.
Agents attest to the leverage that high-quality photography has in the success of a sale. Buyers often highlight the instrumental role pictures play when deciding which homes to visit. Listings graced with high dynamic range (HDR) photos are often snapped up faster and enjoy a spike in online views. Additionally, homes showcasing drone or aerial photos are often sold more quickly.
Overall, capturing appealing and enticing photographs is a critical aspect of selling a home. Wit high-quality photographs, you can enhance the visual allure of your home, making it more likely to attract interested buyers. Read on for some top tips and learn how to take pictures of your house to sell.
Guiding Principles for Creating Sale-Spurring Home Photographs
Simplify and Make Impersonal
Eliminating clutter and personal items is the first step to preparing your home for a photo shoot. Buyers should be able to envision themselves living in the home without feeling like they are intruding on someone else's personal space. Therefore, family photos, personal belongings, and small appliances should be tucked away. Clean off the kitchen counters, bathroom counters, and tables, leaving out just a few decorative items like fresh flowers.
Let Professionals Lead the Way
While DIY has its place, professional real estate photography isn't one of them. Amateur and professional real estate photography differ significantly in terms of quality and effectiveness in a real estate transaction. Professionals possess the expertise, equipment, and editing skills necessary to present your home in the most flattering light, helping to draw in potential buyers. For instance, professional photographers have a wide-angle lens to capture the entire room and have the skills to create compelling images. They can navigate the nuances of lighting, the best angles, and post-production work that helps your house shine in the best light.
Bathrooms Demand Special Attention
Bathrooms can be tricky to photograph. Ensure the room is spotless, with all personal items stowed away. A well-lit bathroom with the light fixtures on and the shower curtain partially open creates an inviting and spacious image.
Focus on the Kitchen
The kitchen is often portrayed as the heart of the home, so it requires a keen eye for detail and an understanding of how to highlight its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Begin by decluttering countertops and removing any personal items, allowing the kitchen's features to take center stage. Frame the shot to capture key elements, such as modern appliances, sleek countertops, and any unique design elements. Showcase the storage capacity by photographing organized cabinets and pantry spaces. Experiment with different angles to find the one that best showcases the layout and flow of the kitchen.
Weather's Impact on Your Shoot
Lighting is a critical component of good photos. Generally, photographing early in the morning or late in the afternoon provides the best natural light. Overcast days can also offer excellent lighting conditions, providing a soft, even light that is perfect for real estate photos.
While sunshine may seem ideal, slightly overcast days often provide the best lighting for both interior and exterior photos. The soft, diffused light reduces harsh shadows and can give your photos a warm, welcoming vibe. If you can't avoid shooting on a sunny day, try to do so when the sun sets for the best results.
Put Emphasis on the Photos, Not the Furnishings
While a beautifully decorated room can be appealing, the focus should be on the space itself, not the decor. Remember, the goal is to help potential buyers visualize their belongings in the room.
Windows Matter
Clean, sparkling, clear windows not only look better, but they also allow more natural light in, creating brighter, more inviting images. If your home has a great view, showcase it in your listing photos. Open the curtains and blinds to let the light flood in.
Spotlight the House's Highlights
Every home has features that make it unique and beautiful. It might be a gourmet kitchen, a cozy fireplace, or a stunning backyard. Whatever it is, capture it in your photos to create a compelling story about your property.
Use Room Corners for Optimal Shots
Shooting photos from a corner can give potential buyers a better idea of the room's size and layout. This technique allows you to showcase as much of the room as possible, giving a comprehensive view of the space.
Choosing Ideal Hues for Your Real Estate Images
Neutral and light colors work best for real estate photos, as they make rooms appear more spacious and brighter. Bright colors can be distracting and might not appeal to all buyers. Therefore, consider repainting spaces in a neutral palette before the photo shoot.
The task of selling your house can seem daunting at times, but with the right approach to real estate photography, you can significantly enhance your home's appeal. Remember, it's all about giving potential buyers the best first impression of your property, which can make a considerable difference in your real estate transaction. These expert tips for how to take pictures of your house to sell will ensure your listing photos create the amazing first impression your home deserves.
Work with Maggie Keats for excellent results
If you’re ready to take pictures of your house to sell, work with a trusted agent who is well-versed in reaching success. A standout in the realm of real estate, particularly within Long Island's North Shore, is none other than Maggie Keats. As the top producer in Long Island real estate, her understanding and expertise of the local market are unparalleled. Reach out to Maggie today to get started on your selling journey.
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock