It sounds easy, right? Purposefully order the pictures on your real estate listing. I’ve come across many listings where it seems the photos were simply uploaded in bulk without further consideration. My advice: It’s worth your time to make the finishing touches and improve your viewer’s experience.
The easiest rule-of-thumb for photo order is to think as if you are approaching the property and walking through the house for the first time. Or leading a client on their first preview. Start with the front or an overhead shot. We refer to this first image as your trophy shot. Choose the photo that best encompasses the property as a whole. Set the stage. Then, head through the entrance and kitchen, and into the living, dining and entertainment areas. Finish the interior with the bedrooms and bathrooms. And lastly, outside to the pool, outdoor entertainment areas, and the views of course. See the short and sweet version of a recent successful auction sale in Paradise Valley, Arizona – trophy shot, entry, and backyard pool.
I’ve decided not to call anyone out whose photo order makes my stomach sink. But, I know you have seen them. You head in the front door, and immediately you are in a bathroom. What? — The front door opens to a bathroom?.. Then a bedroom, and the next thing you know you’re outside. Ugh. Not a very smooth experience.
But I WILL call out some people who get it right. Frank Aazami is a real estate pro with the Private Client Group at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty in Scottsdale. Visit his website, and you will find 42 listings — all with impeccable photos (and order). Another great example: L&K Real Estate. We are currently marketing a property for auction with L&K in Big Sky, Montana. All of their materials, including their website, are amazing. And their pictures are thoughtfully ordered.
Now, it is not the end of the world if a picture or two is misplaced. But, everything completely scattered simply looks sloppy.
It sounds easy because it is. But, in marketing a luxury home for sale, every easy, little touch goes a long way.
Please contact me if you have any questions about photography order. Or, if you are interested in the auction process, download our 7 Steps in the Real Estate Auction Process by clicking below.