Don’t let poor-quality property photos sabotage your sale. In today’s competitive property market, first impressions count – and for most buyers, those impressions are formed online. High-quality property photos are one of the most powerful tools in attracting serious buyers and securing the best offer for your home.
A staggering 98% of buyers start their property search by browsing listings on portals such as Rightmove and Zoopla. This means that when marketing your home, professional property photos are essential to ensure that buyers scrolling online are impressed from the very first glance.
Here’s why excellent property photos are critical to selling your home quickly and for the right price:
- Good photos showcase your home’s potential – Bright, well-composed images help buyers imagine themselves living in the space. Photos that highlight natural light and spaciousness invite buyers to book a viewing.
- Cluttered or messy rooms lower perceived value – If images show rooms filled with clutter, laundry, or personal belongings, buyers may think you’re eager to sell fast and could be tempted to offer less.
- Buyers want reassurance the property is well maintained – Dark, poorly presented rooms raise red flags, making buyers wonder what hidden problems they may find later.
The good news? With a few simple steps, you can ensure your property photos create the right impression and give your home the attention it deserves.
1. Declutter to Show Off the Space
If you’re serious about moving, you’ll need to declutter eventually – so start before the photoshoot. Tidy surfaces, remove excess items, and donate or store anything you no longer need. Creating a clean, open space will make rooms appear larger and more inviting in photos.
2. Depersonalise Your Home
Buyers want to picture themselves living in the property, not feel like they’re intruding on someone else’s life. Remove personal items such as family photographs, children’s toys, pet beds, and collections (like dolls or military memorabilia) to create a neutral environment that appeals to a broad range of buyers.
3. Review and Rearrange Furniture
Large or bulky furniture can make rooms appear smaller than they are. Take a critical look at each room: could removing or rearranging furniture create more space? The goal is to strike a balance between making a room look lived-in and spacious, which will be reflected in your property photos.
4. Neutralise Bold Décor
Bright feature walls or bold wallpaper might suit your taste, but they could deter potential buyers. A fresh coat of neutral paint can give your home a lighter, more modern look that appeals to more people. This simple step can make a huge difference in how your home appears in photographs and in person.
5. Tidy Outdoor Spaces
First impressions don’t stop at the front door. Make sure paths, patios, and gardens are neat and tidy. Cut the grass, weed flowerbeds, and move bins and cars out of view for any external shots. Clean windows and doors, and consider adding a pot plant or two to enhance kerb appeal.
6. Stage and Style for the Shoot
Small touches can add warmth and character without being overpowering. Fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit on the kitchen table, and made-up beds (never leave mattresses bare) all contribute to an attractive, homely feel in professional property photos.
7. Remove Everyday Clutter
Everyday items such as toiletries, tea towels, cleaning products, and dish drainers should be stored out of sight. Buyers don’t want to see evidence of daily chores – they want to imagine their life in the space.
8. Choose the Right Estate Agent
Not all agents are equal when it comes to marketing properties. Before choosing an agent, look at their listings online. Do their property photos look bright, clear, and professional? The right agent will know how to showcase your home to its full potential and work with a professional photographer to ensure your listing stands out.
Final Thoughts
When selling a property, professional property photos are essential in today’s competitive housing market. By following these steps, you can ensure your home looks its absolute best, attracting serious buyers and avoiding unnecessary price drops or long periods without viewings.
If you’re thinking of selling this spring or summer and want advice on how to prepare your home for the market, contact us for a free, no-obligation valuation.
And if you know someone thinking about selling, feel free to share this article – it could help them make the right first impression too.
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