Listing Photos That Sell: Which Shots Buyers Want to See

When buyers browse homes online, photos do most of the talking. Many people decide whether to schedule a showing before they read a single word of the description. That makes your photo gallery one of the most important parts of selling your home. Here is how to make every image work for you.

Start With a Strong First Impression

The lead photo is usually the front of the house, and for good reason. Buyers want to see what they would be pulling up to every day. When a listing skips the exterior, people often assume there is something to hide.

Before the photographer arrives, give your curb appeal some attention:

• Mow, edge and pull weeds
• Add a few potted plants or fresh mulch to flower beds
• Sweep or pressure wash the driveway, walkway and front porch
• Move trash cans, hoses, toys and cars out of the frame
• Make sure the front door, house numbers and light fixtures look clean

One exception: if you are selling a condo in a building where the exterior is not much of a selling point, it may make sense to lead with a standout interior shot or a view instead.

The Rooms Buyers Care About Most

The kitchen

For many buyers, the kitchen can make or break a home. Capture the full layout so people can see how the space flows, then add closer shots that highlight countertops, cabinetry, storage and appliances. Clear the counters of almost everything. A bowl of fruit or a single plant is plenty.

The primary suite

Show off the size of the bedroom with a wide angle from a corner. If there is an attached bathroom, a walk-in closet or a sitting area, give each its own photo. Make the bed neatly, remove personal items and open the blinds to bring in natural light.

Other bedrooms and bathrooms

Families especially want to see where everyone will sleep and how many bathrooms they will share. Every bedroom and full bathroom deserves at least one clean, bright photo. Tidy up kids’ rooms, close toilet lids and hang fresh towels.

Help Buyers Picture the Lifestyle

Outdoor spaces help buyers imagine actually living in your home. Photograph the patio, deck, porch, garden and yard. If you have water, woods or a skyline nearby, include a shot of the view. Set out patio furniture and maybe a few cushions so the space feels inviting.

Also make sure anything you brag about in the description has a matching photo. If your listing mentions a pool, a workshop, a game room or a home office, buyers will look for it in the gallery. A feature that is described but not shown can raise questions instead of excitement.

Why Professional Photos Pay Off

Phone cameras are impressive, but professional real estate photographers know how to light rooms evenly, choose flattering angles and avoid the distortion that makes spaces look odd. Many also offer drone shots, floor plans and video tours. Because photos drive showings, this is usually money well spent.

A few final prep reminders for shoot day:

1. Turn on every light and open every blind.
2. Remove family photos, mail and personal items.
3. Hide pet bowls, beds and litter boxes.
4. Walk each room from the doorway and look for anything distracting.

If you are selling so you can buy your next place, now is a great time to understand your financing options. You can estimate your future payment with our mortgage calculator or browse our loan programs.

When you are ready to talk about your next home, reach out to FLO Mortgage. Our loan officers can help you line up financing while your listing goes live.

This article is for general education and is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval, underwriting guidelines and program availability. FLO Mortgage, Company NMLS #1835856. Equal Housing Opportunity.