Listing Mistakes

By CDI Columbus on October 27, 2009

Hello,  I am a graphic designer for a local company that makes brochures (among other marketing materials) for many realtors in the Columbus area. As you know, it is not especially difficult to take a photo. You don’t exactly need to be a rocket scientist, or even a professional photographer. But, to be sure, the photos you present to the world on MLS or in your fact sheet will be the first step in selling (or not selling) your home – or at least getting someone in the door.

The photo below on the left is one that a realtor took and sent to us to put in their home brochure. It’s not a bad photo… of the fireplace…but if this is going to tell the story of the entertainment room I’d like to know more. This is a gorgeous home in the $600,000 range with many fantastic selling points; and a bit challenging to photograph. A wide angle lens is a must for a house like this.

The photo on the right is of that same room that a photographer at my company took. WOW! Now THAT’S an entertainment  room. Yep, she’s got a wide angle lens and, well, she is a professional photographer.

Below is another example. The top photo is one the realtor sent me and below it is our photographers photo of the kitchen. Can you say DARK and 1980 Polaroid??? What material is that counter made of??? (It’s Granite – though you can’t tell that in the top photo) Again the wide angle lens is the only way to go, and a good exposure is priceless. I really want to see the kitchen on the bottom – who’s listing is it and where is it?!

My point is if you are a realtor (or homeowner) and you are hell bent on taking your own photos that’s fine, but PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE invest in a good camera… AND a wide angle lens – it is in most cases absolutely necessary, hi resolution format is a must, NOT jumping up and down is also good. No matter how “fast” your camera shoots, if you’re driving by and you snap the photo, chances are it’s gonna be blurry.

Your photos tell the story of your home that’s for sale – if it says “dark, dreary, blurry and small” well, you may not be doing it – or the homeowner justice.

Sincerely,

Graphic Designer
Color Design Innovations, Inc.
CDI 614-794-4379