Selling your home is never easy, especially in today’s inflationary environment where interest rates are high. This means staging your home is more important than ever. The better your home is staged, the more viewings it will get and, as a result, the better the chances of getting it sold.
Here are 12 things to consider to ensure your house shines in photos.
Show Off Natural Light
Good lighting is essential for showcasing your home’s features (and let’s face it, everybody prefers natural light to artificial light). Open curtains and blinds to allow natural light to flood the space. If possible, schedule the photo shoot during the day when the sunlight is at its best.
Well-lit rooms feel more inviting and spacious in photographs.
Clean the Clutter
Before snapping any pictures, declutter each room. While it’s okay to have common household items around, don’t make counters or other surfaces look messy.
Remove personal items, excessive furniture, and unnecessary decor. A clean and clutter-free space allows potential buyers to envision themselves in the home. Consider this step as the foundation for creating visually appealing photos.
Highlight Architectural Features
Emphasize the unique and attractive architectural elements of your home. Capture interesting angles that showcase features like exposed beams, intricate molding, or a beautiful fireplace. These details add character and charm, making your property stand out from the competition.
Improve Curb Appeal
First impressions matter, and the exterior of your home sets the tone. Trim the landscaping, clean the driveway, and add a pop of color with fresh flowers. A well-maintained exterior creates a positive impression and encourages potential buyers to explore further.
Stage Each Room
Staging a house is crucial for enhancing real estate photos because it transforms empty or cluttered spaces into inviting and visually appealing rooms that people want to be in. By strategically placing furniture, decor, and accessories, staging helps potential buyers envision themselves living in the space.
It also highlights the functionality and potential of each room, allowing photographers to capture the best angles and perspectives. Staged homes tend to photograph better in terms of lighting and composition, creating images that are more attractive and enticing to prospective buyers browsing online listings.
Make Surfaces Shine
Cleanliness is a top priority when selling a home. Wipe down surfaces, polish countertops, and ensure floors are spotless. Reflective surfaces, like mirrors and stainless steel appliances, should be streak-free to enhance the overall cleanliness of the space in photos.
Feature Family Spaces
Highlight the functionality of each room. Showcase the kitchen with neatly organized countertops, and display the potential of a home office with a well-arranged desk and comfortable chair. Clearly defined and functional spaces resonate with potential buyers.
Create a Cozy Atmosphere
Incorporate elements that make your home feel warm and inviting. Utilize soft furnishings, like throw pillows and blankets, to add a cozy touch. A carefully curated atmosphere can make potential buyers feel at home before stepping through the door.
Pay Attention to Details
Small details can make a big difference in photos. Ensure all light bulbs work, fix any visible wear and tear, and replace outdated fixtures if necessary. These details may seem minor, but they contribute to the overall appeal of your home in photos.
Use High-Quality Photography Equipment
Invest in professional photography or use high-quality equipment if you’re doing it yourself. High-resolution images capture the details and colors of your home accurately, making it more attractive to potential buyers. Quality photos also convey a sense of professionalism and care.
Shoot from the Right Angles
Experiment with different angles to find the most flattering views of each room. Showcase the dimensions and layout of the space by capturing photos from corners or doorways. Sometimes, you won’t know what the best angle was until the photos are processed, so don’t be afraid to snap more photos than you think you’ll need.
However, don’t go too wide with the angle because wide angle lenses often create distortion in photos.
Don’t Forget About Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor areas such as gardens, patios, or balconies are often considered extensions of the living space, offering opportunities for relaxation, entertainment, and enjoyment of nature. Showcasing these spaces allows prospective buyers to envision themselves living in the property and imagine how they would utilize these outdoor areas.
Also, well-maintained outdoor spaces can significantly enhance the overall appeal and value of a property, making them key selling points that should not be overlooked in real estate marketing efforts.