Take the DIY Approach for Your Real Estate Listing Photos

Studies show that bad real estate photos can delay the sale of a home, but are real estate professionals getting the message? Many real estate listings feature photos that either don't do justice to the home or make it look much, much worse than it does in real life. Of course, serious buyers will request a showing in spite of blurry or awkward listing photos, but why risk it? Here are a few pointers for improving your digital photos.

Clear the clutter: In the broadest sense. Make sure nothing (trees, bikes, toys, clothing) is blocking a pure view of your subject. That includes fingers in front of the lens. Also, before taking photos consider hiring a maid to do a one-time cleaning at the house to make sure everything looks in order.

Plan ahead: Arrange your shots to make sure you have enough light and capture both the inside and out at an optimal time.

Focus: Advanced digital cameras will zero-in on a focal points to give your overall shot balance, but if your camera doesn't comply, make sure the center of the image is the subject of your photo, whether that is a bed, a doorway, a garden, etc.

Ordering: Follow a logical path in your series of photos. Some buyers like the photos to begin at the front of the home and move through from room to room. Depending on the listing, however, you might decide to do exterior shots first, then go inside. Whichever route you take, try to follow that logical path to make the experience almost the next best thing to being there.