Believe it or not, would you list a home for $350,000 in a very stable neighborhood (homes are held for 15-20 plus years) and the market the home in the MLS showing only two (2) photographs of the front and side elevation? Oh, and by the way the property is vacant and the only one currently for sale in this neighborhood.
Marketing in all industries including real estate is about attracting attention and beginning to build a relationship. Displaying only two (2) pictures may indicate the following:
- The house is a terrible mess inside
- The listing agent/brokerage firm is lazy or doesn’t care
Neither of these indicators support building a relationship nor will they increase sales.
This is not the first time I have discovered vacant homes in our area lacking photographs. I understand about leased homes not having photographs as well as some occupied homes.
However, there is no excuse not to showcase the property to the absolute best of its potential. This showing includes but is not limited to interior or exterior pictures of the backyard, the neighborhood, views from the house, etc.
Of course, some photographs are to entice and yet do not accurately reflect the actual interior of the space being photographs. Many of these pictures make the rooms seem larger than they actually are. Again, a disservice to the sellers and may turn off potential buyers who physically view the property. Bottom line returns to no increase sales.
As real estate sales professionals, we are expected, per the Code of Ethics, to protect and promote the interests of our clients and customers. In a high inventory market, differentiation is essential. Well taken photographs highlight that differentiation.
Now if the real estate market is one of high velocity where inventory is low, not taking photographs may speak poorly about the property. In my humble opinion, either market demonstrates a violation of that Code of Ethics.
How can either the seller or the potential buyer be protected or promoted when the listing agent fails to promote the property to the best of his or her ability?
Finally, how in the world does the listing agent expect to increase sales?
Graphics courtesy of Pixabay
Comments (2)Subscribe to CommentsComment