In real estate, a picture is not only worth a thousand words, but it can also be worth a better sales price. With 80% of home buyers starting their house hunting online, beautiful photos are the new curb appeal. If you’re selling a home, consider these savvy strategies for a picture-perfect listing.
Hire a pro. Many real estate agents will hire a professional photographer to take photos of your listing at no cost to you. However, if you’re assisting your agent or you have decided to list your own property, it is wise to invest in a professional photographer who specializes in real estate. An experienced photographer will capture the best angles in every room.
Use a quality camera. If you are taking your own photos, a decent camera is key. Your iPhone 6 may take great pictures at your son’s soccer game, but you’ll get better quality with an actual camera. You don’t need to invest in high-end equipment — a digital camera with at least five megapixels will do the trick.
Let there be light. For best results, photograph your home during the day, utilizing as much natural light as possible. Opening shades and curtains will achieve this goal while avoiding the need to use a flash. If possible, avoid taking pictures on rainy days. However, a cloudy day may work well for exterior shots of your home — there will be fewer shadows and less glare from the sun.
Choose strategic angles and tools. When photographing each room, use an angle that makes the space look as large as possible. Usually, the perspective from a doorway has the desired effect. Avoid shooting unsightly wires and clutter. Finally, when selecting the photos you will use, take advantage of digital photo editing tools to crop photos and adjust their contrast and brightness. The end result will be higher-quality photos — attracting the high-quality buyers!