Just went to show a couple of properties. One was a 2100 square foot colonial built 1972, the other a 1700 square foot cape cod built 1939. Based on the pictures, the 1700 square foot cape cod looked huge compared to the 2100 square foot colonial. When we viewed the properties the buyers commented, "I thought this looked so much bigger and better on the pictures." It did. I told them before we set up the appointment. You see, I use the same lens, take the same type of pictures, arrange them in the same order as the Listing Agent for the 1700 cape cod. You have to do that to ensure the maximum amount of potential buyers view the property.
I'm not going to give away my little trade secrets, but the lens, angle of the picture, lighting, and sequence of the pictures all make a difference. You want to walk potential buyers through the property. You do this by focusing on major features that are going to sell the house while leaving a bit of the background open to the next room. Before the buyers move to the next room, focus a second or third picture on the important details sure to draw attention. Only then are buyers allowed to move to the next room. How pictures are arranged is more important than quantity. We see this everyday on television. Car companies are famous for wide angle, close up presentations. It is so successful it has been copied by everyone from health care providers to food and beer companies who spend millions to get consumers to focus for a few seconds. It's not often I see this technique used in Real Estate, but when I do, I pause to admire the work of an artist.
Time for a little artistic writing to get you in the mood. Imagine how you can make a 1939 home more attractive. Focus on the old world charm. Capture the glow of hardwood floors, crown moldings, ornate woodwork. Linger at the natural fireplace for a moment. See the dancing flames warm the room. Admire the craftsmanship and pride that went into every brick. The artist signed his creation with his trademark arrangement, just a little different than everyone else, adding a flair that will stand for centuries. I think you need an appreciation for the classics to sell them. I love it when I see other agents calling attention to the details that make a house a home.
