The worst real estate photography showcased
Marketing a property often begins with a valuation check, conducting research to see how it compares with other similar properties in the area, and getting photographs taken before listing it online.
However, some homeowners and investors underestimate the importance of taking good photographs – resulting in unflattering photos that may impact the tenancy or sale of your property.
Property Observer recently reported that less-than-ideal photographs could be a contributing factor for properties that have not been tenanted for a while.
What, then, is classified as a less-than-ideal photo? We recently came across Terrible Real Estate Agent Photographs, a blog full of terrible photos from real estate listings, as its name suggests.
The blog's curator states that "All the images I use are from genuine real estate agent websites, rather than gumtree/craigslist/airbnb etc so it’s fair to assume the majority have been taken by professional agents rather than landlords."
Some of these photos include properties with random furniture strewn around the living area, badly photoshopped photos, as well as a particular property where its corners were photographed extensively.
What do the bad photos have in common?
Perhaps the most obvious point is that they do not show the property in its best light. They also do not highlight the best feature of the property.
Some of the photos show a poorly maintained unit with unmade beds and random rubbish strewn around the property – which speaks volumes about property management, as well as the care factor of the landlord.
Other photos are plain bizarre. One notable image showed a male in a hooded jacket standing in the bedroom, looking as if he was ready to go to bed. Another image showed a dining table placed strategically in front of two sofas.
Conversely, what makes a good set of photos?
Here are some tips from property photographer Aysha Harburn:
- Presentation is everything – Move as many personal items as possible and store them somewhere, as prospective buyers like to be able to imagine themselves in that space.
- Declutter. Minimalise the number of objects around, and ensure surfaces are clear.
- Make sure the garden is presentable.
- For older properties, a fresh lick of paint can make a difference.
- Consider whether to use twilight photography. Often twilight photography can bring a property to life, and can make a difference with how the property looks.
For humorous negative examples of real estate listing photos, click through to the blog. Its curator welcomes submissions, and adds his own captions – complete with witty humour.
If you've got any of your own, we also want to see them. Email news@propertyobserver.com.au