The Internet is the first place prospective home buyers look when they begin the search for their new house. Your property needs to make an immediate and lasting first impression online and then in-person.

The best way to do that is through attention-grabbing photos - decluttering, adding some strategic touches, and making updates that make a home instantly desirable.

Sellers Want an Agent Who Is Social Media Savvy.

It goes without saying that the Internet is the most powerful tool for buying and selling houses. But, a tool is only useful when in the hands of someone who knows how to use it effectively. As a sellers agent, it’s essential to have an understanding of digital listings, as well as a strong social media presence, and value the use of social platforms to attract the highest offers.

Minimize Mess and Lose the Clutter

It may seem like a no-brainer, but make sure you clear off all tables and countertops before taking photos. Clean all the rooms being photographed and reduce any clutter. It may even be a good idea to move some pieces of furniture to make the room look more open.

A house should look unique but also unembellished enough that a buyer can see themselves in the space. Get rid of anything that could make for a distracting photo, like a pile of mail, change bowl, bathroom toiletries, and everything on the front of the fridge. Hide unnecessary appliances in the cupboards so the beautiful kitchen counter can be on display.

You can even remove any rugs or runners for the shoot. An open floor makes a room look more spacious. Remove or replace dated drapes that darken rooms. Once you’ve eliminated the lived-in look, you may even want to hire a professional stager to help arrange the home’s interior in a way that is attention-grabbing online and in person.

Make Presale Updates to Kitchen and Bathrooms

One of the most reliable ways to get a buyer’s attention is by making presale updates that ensure a home’s interior competes with the latest trends. Instead of being forced to price drop to get the buyers’ attention, have your sellers invest in some quick and straightforward presale renovations that will transform a kitchen or bathroom with the most modern, on-trend designs.

Buyers are less likely to check out a home with outdated features and color palettes because they know they will have to remodel themselves after they buy. As a seller’s agent, you can get out ahead of this problem by giving your client’s home a quick facelift. Then, you won’t have to compromise when it comes to the final price.

Decorate with Flowers and Greenery

When you place houseplants or flowers around a home, you can make the house look cozy and stylish. Turn a house into the best version of itself by strategically decorating to draw the buyer’s eye to your listing’s best features.

Use an attractive houseplant to bring attention to the gorgeous bay window. Organize some stacks of books in an aesthetically pleasing way to draw attention to the built-in shelves.

Remember to open all the curtains and window shades to show off a great view or amazing natural lighting. But make sure not to go overboard with these tricks. You want to direct the buyer’s eye without distracting from the home’s best attributes.

Use a Professional Photographer with Interior Focus

As a seller’s agent, one of the most important things you can do is be ready with eye-catching, scroll-stopping photos. Photographs are more important than a great description because consumers will decide to view a particular property within seconds of seeing the pictures online. Professional, well-planned photos will ensure that all the work you’ve done to prepare a home will get noticed. The better the photo, the more qualified leads. It’s that simple.

Although many clients will be tempted to save the cash and shoot their home with a smartphone, it’s always the best option to make the investment and hire a professional photographer who has the necessary equipment to take multiple shots at different angles.

A real estate photographer should already have an idea of what they need to prioritize during the shoot. It’s not a bad idea for you to figure out precisely what shots you want to have at the end of the day. Make a list of the shots you can’t live without, and then if you get some great photos of other rooms or features, that’s just a bonus. Buyers want to see kitchens, bathrooms, living and outdoor spaces. Make sure these photos are front and center.

Of course, if a home has any unique attributes that will attract buyers (like the trapdoor!), make sure to add those to your checklist. After you’ve spent so much time and energy renovating a home, photos are the perfect way to show off all that work!