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Should You Re-Photo?

By
Industry Observer with Living in the Pacific

Ever searched through listings during the late summer and notice all the trees in the photos have no leaves, or that the grass is dormant? Ever notice listings that upon a visit, look nothing like the photos? I visited a home recently that has been on the market for nearly two years and upon entering, I wondered where all the tacky looking wallpaper and the clutter went!
The owners over time have apparently progressed through making their home more appealing to potential buyers, but buyers searching online have no clue. No wallpaper, all neutral colors, new windows, decluttered, new flooring and newer appliances. This home was not the same home shown on line and it is still on the market because it is NOT GETTING SHOWINGS!

Agents who don't update their photos as NEEDED are doing a huge injustice to their clients. Could this fall into the Due Diligence catagory - Absolutely! And it can be prevelent in many markets.

I'm sure this "CURRENT" photo of a active listing is really inviting when it is a perfect sunny day in our neck of the woods. Who would even want to go here? Subliminally, this photo says "Cold & Dreary"

I'm heading out today to do some sign maintenance, shoot new counter tops installed at one of my listings, and improve my other exterior shots with green-a-plenty - blooming trees, flowers, and shrubs, and freshly mulched flower beds.

Why wouldn't I? Shouldn't SPRING CLEANING  also apply to visual tour marketing!

Posted by

 

  Randy Landis, Overseas Retirement Consultant.

 

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Show All Comments Sort:
Jim Courtney
OklaHomes Realty, Claremore Oklahoma - Claremore, OK
CRS, GRI, AHWD

Randy, I agree wholeheartedly! I usually update my photos of my listings every three months...if they are still on the market. Buyers can look at a photo and tell if the listing has been on the market for very long. Outdated photos will equal discounted offers fast! Great advice for sellers and agents alike. :)

Apr 13, 2011 03:19 AM
Jason McDowell
Maryville, MO

Great advice! Updated photos will keep things fresher which should lead in to more interest on the property. Thanks for posting this.

Apr 13, 2011 03:23 AM
Bryan Robertson
Los Altos, CA

I'll update photos on an old listing but I've only had that happen once.  Generally, with professional photos and California weather it's not necessary to update the photos for snow, etc.

Apr 13, 2011 03:25 AM
Wallace S. Gibson, CPM
Gibson Management Group, Ltd. - Charlottesville, VA
LandlordWhisperer

Great reminder! I frequently update as trees cover the exterior or trees and flowers bloom!

Apr 13, 2011 03:26 AM
Will Hamm
Hamm Homes - Aurora, CO
"Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"

Great post and great reminder for all of us now that the weather is change.

Apr 13, 2011 03:28 AM
Marguerite Roland
RE/MAX Allegiance - Burke, VA
Northern Virginia

I agree, updated photos make a difference, especially going from winter to spring.  Thank you for the reminder.

Apr 13, 2011 06:07 PM