Home Eyesores That Make a Real Estate Photographer’s Job Harder

Lighting, camera settings and lenses, and capturing the right angles are all tools real estate photographers use to make a property look its best for listing photos. There's only so much a photographer can about eyesores though. There are some things that can make a real estate photographer's job harder when it comes to presenting a home in its best light.

An Ugly Paint Color

Good quality paint color can do great things for listing photos. Unfortunately, ugly paint colors can have the opposite effect and make a home look much less appealing. There's only so much a photographer can do to take flattering photos without straight up misrepresenting the color. When selling a home, it's important to appeal to as many people as possible, which means making your paint appeal to as many people as possible. This generally means avoiding certain colors in favor of more neutral tones.

Driveway Damage

Driveway damage is another issue that can make a real estate photographer's job harder. Depending on how extensive the damage is and where it's located, they may be able to find an angle that doesn't showcase it. Driveway damage can be a deal-breaker for buyers, so the better move by far is to simply fix it. If you have an asphalt driveway, consider sealcoating it. Sealcoating your asphalt can protect the surface and expand the lifespan. If your concrete is cracked, repair it, replacing the slab if needed. This will help you avoid turning buyers away because they didn't want to purchase a home with a damaged driveway.

Poorly-Maintained Landscaping

Poorly-maintained landscaping can also be difficult for a photographer to work with. Your landscaping acts as a frame for your home's exterior, and is critical to curb appeal. If it isn't maintained well, it can become overgrown and unhealthy. It lends itself to chaos, rather than the neat, orderly presentation that is more appealing to buyers. If that sounds like your yard, take some steps to get it in check. Performing basic lawn maintenance can help your lawn look attractive and healthy. If you have trees or shrubbery, make sure they are pruned properly. Remove weeds from any flower beds. This will help your landscaping look more beautiful and will make it easier for your photographer to take more flattering photos.

It's a real estate photographer's job to make properties look their best in photographs. It's not an easy job, and can be even more difficult if the home they're supposed to be taking pictures of has ugly paint, driveway damage, or poorly-maintained landscaping. For the best pictures, make sure you address these and other home eyesores before the photography session. Your photographer will thank you for it.

Need your property photographed before you sell? Contact me to schedule an appointment!

How to Design a Kitchen That is Sure to Attract Buyers

Having an updated kitchen is a must if you are preparing to sell your home. Buyers are savvier than ever about design style, so being creative as well as trendy will help you get top dollar for your real estate. Here are some suggestions that may inspire you on your kitchen remodel.

Use Unique Materials

Keeping up with current trends is smart, however, consider adding a unique twist that will give your kitchen that "Wow" effect to grab the buyer's attention. According to Ramsey Creek, you can also make cabinets exiting and choose from several exotic woods to give your space a different look. Quartz countertops are hot with many unique looks that could fit into your decor. Take time to complete the overall look with a paint color that will bring everything together for a coordinated look. Think about recovering the floor with easy to clean materials that are safe to walk on without slipping.

Make Sure There’s Plenty of Light

The kitchen is the workroom of a home, so it should be well lit. Replacing the current light fixtures is another way to showcase the kitchen. Work areas such as the sink, stove, and countertops need specific spotlighting as well as having attractive overhead lights. According to YLighting, using recessed lights can solve a space or height issue. If using metal light fixtures, think about using new hardware on your cabinets in the same type of finish. Even the color and type of light bulb used can give your kitchen a different look.

Replace the Appliances

When someone is buying a home, they do not want to see used outdated appliances in the kitchen. With so many design options available, do research and use the new pieces to add to your overall kitchen scheme. Adding Wi-Fi, as with other types of technology, to the kitchen area will enhance younger buyers. Make sure there are plenty of electrical outlets near the countertops for small appliances such as food processors, blenders, coffeemakers, and slow cookers.

When it comes to attracting buyers and getting your price point on the sale, the devil is in the details. Most of the buyers want a near turn-key home when looking. The kitchen is high on the list when they make their decision of buying a new home. Being creative and using unique materials when renovating will leave a lasting impression that will sell your house.

If you’re ready to sell a home, you’re going to need great pictures of it for your listings. Contact me to schedule a photography appointment!

Top 5 Backyard Features That Can Bring In More Buyers

There are not many places better suited for fun and relaxation than your own backyard. And this point will not be lost on any potential buyers for your home. The simple and inexpensive backyard upgrades discussed below will pay dividends when it is time to place your home for sale.

Outdoor Entertainment Area

Prospective homebuyers will love the idea of having a designated space in the backyard to dine and entertain guests. One way to provide this perk is to outfit your backyard with a new deck or patio. There are many benefits of installing a deck that can really help appeal to potential buyers. A deck is a perfect place to hold family gatherings and other get-togethers. You can even add an outdoor kitchen or grill to the patio to make it more appealing. A deck can increase the square footage of a home. When the weather permits, there is more room to read, eat, relax, or enjoy other activities at home. The aesthetic value added to your home will also increase your asking price for the home. It is estimated that 70 percent of the cost to build the deck will likely be recouped when selling the home.

A Place for the Kids to Play

Outdoor playtime is important for children of all ages. But all too often, kids will prefer to spend their time indoors with their video games versus playtime in the outdoors. You can combat this trend and attract the interest of more buyers by making your backyard a place that is both kid-friendly and fun. Homeowners will appreciate knowing their children are afforded all the outdoor fun they desire in the safety of their own backyard. A sandbox is one simple suggestion that can be enjoyed by kids as young as a year old. Other ideas include swing sets, playhouses, and forts. The fun a child can have in a backyard is only limited to the imagination.

Water and Lighting Features

In-ground swimming pools have been known to increase the value of a home by as much as seven percent. Many homeowners are also more attracted to a home with a pool than one with similar specifications and no pool. The value a pool adds to your home will be more substantial if you live in a climate where the pool can be enjoyed year-round. You can make your pool even more attractive to potential buyers by adding a shower. A simple shower where the kids can wash the chlorine from their bodies before reentering the home is all that is needed. Backyard lighting is also a great attraction to potential homebuyers. Lights can be used to add security and peace of mind. Path lighting will add to the aesthetic value of the backyard while providing illumination to ensure a safe walk in the dark. String lighting is perfect for entertaining guests.

Irrigation System

A good irrigation system will keep your lawn green and healthy while adding to the appeal of your backyard. An irrigation system is a relatively inexpensive addition to a backyard and about 86 percent of the cost of the system can be recovered when the home is sold.

Landscape With Privacy in Mind

A good landscaping program will make it much easier to sell your home. Real estate agents often report sales being sealed because of the landscaping. Furthermore, it is not unusual for 100 percent of landscaping costs to be recouped at a home sale. Landscaping for privacy can add even more value to the home. A well-manicured hedge can add a sense of privacy when enjoying your backyard and will also benefit the aesthetic value of the yard. Mature trees planted a proper distance from your home can produce the same effect. The Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers reports that each mature tree can add $1,000 to $10,000 to the value of a home.

Backyard additions can be used to increase the offers made for your home in a number of ways. The yard can become an extension of the home that adds more living space, the backyard can become a place that provides endless entertainment for a new homeowner, or a potential buyer may become completely smitten with the aesthetics of the backyard. The five additions above are great ideas for facilitating one or more of these benefits.

To show off your home’s backyard to potential buyers, invest in some quality real estate photography! View our pricing here.

3 Landscape Maintenance Tips That Can Help You Sell Your Home

When it comes to real estate, you can't overestimate the value of curb appeal. Attractive landscaping will draw the eye of prospective buyers, some of whom might just be passing by. There's no need to take on expensive and complicated projects—a few simple touches can go a long way toward boosting your home's resale prospects.

Maintain Dead and Overgrown Trees

Just one dead or rotting tree can give the house an air of abandonment and neglect, and overgrown ones can lead to moss growth and moisture damage. If your property has any of these issues, they should be tackled before any brightwork takes place. There are several safety precautions to take when removing trees, so make sure you follow them in order to prevent serious problems. If the trees are within ten feet of any power lines, you're required to enlist the aid of a trained expert. If you're ever in doubt about any of the protocol, it's best to call a professional, just in case.

Touch Up the Mulch and Soil

Mulch is composed of organic materials and used to protect plant roots from extreme weather conditions, as well as to retain soil moisture. Because it's organic, it needs to be replenished often, especially if you're trying to make the area more visually appealing. There's no need to remove the old mulch, as long as there are no signs of mold or other damage. Just scatter a layer of fresh material over the top. Wood chips are an eye-catching and inexpensive choice, but you can tailor the ingredients to your preference. Similarly, you should touch up your garden soil if it's gotten too dry to form a ball, or if it's so damp that it smears against your hand when you touch it. Healthy soil should form into a tidy clump and break apart naturally under moderate pressure.

Think Color

Even if you have an existing flower garden, you've got nothing to lose by making it more vibrant. Introduce a range of colorful new blossoms to welcome visitors into the yard and garden areas. If space is an issue, consider investing in whiskey barrels or other containers to use as outdoor planters. These can be regularly replenished with whatever flora happens to be in season.

The exterior of your home is the first stop for buyers. With the proper care and attention, you can make your landscape something that helps convince someone to buy your home.

To show off your beautiful landscape and home to potential buyers, take advantage of our real estate photography services!

Areas of Your Home to Clean Before Putting It on the Market

Preparing to sell your home can be a complicated and stressful process. From choosing an agent to cleaning and staging your home for listing photos and viewings, the number of things that need to be done can be overwhelming. During all of this, it can be easy to overlook certain spots. Do not forget these three areas when preparing to place your home on the market.

The Exterior of Your Home

How often do you think to give the exterior of your home a good scrub? Muddy spots and smudges can stand out in photos. If you want to make your home shine, make sure to give the exterior, including windows and shutters, a thorough cleaning.

Not only will it look great in pictures, but washing your home enhances the property value. It removes mud and dirt, but it also rids the outside of the house of mold and mildew. Plus, it can make it easier to find places where chipped paint needs touching up before potential buyers will see it.

Blinds and Window Treatments

Dingy and dusty blinds and window treatments can age a home beyond its years. Worse, they can make otherwise immaculate kitchens and bathrooms feel unclean, which can bring images of unwanted pests to mind for potential buyers.

Why take the risk when most window treatments can be machine washed, and cleaning blinds can be much easier and less expensive than you might think?

Moldings and Architectural Features

Finally, make sure to pay attention to any moldings or architectural features in your home. Do not let these bits of character and interest age your home instead of making it stand out from the other homes on the market. A simple wipe down and a touchup with caulk and paint can take years off your home's appearance and make these features stick in the minds of potential buyers.

It is natural to forget about the small details that you see everyday, so it can be easy to miss places that need attention when you are preparing to put your home on the market. Make sure to take a step back and look at your home as if it is the first time you are seeing it. A bit of extra time and effort spent deep cleaning and making minor repairs can pay off big time come closing.

Want to make your house look stunning on the market? Click here to book a professional photographer!

A Quick Guide to Choosing a Real Estate Agent

Choosing the right real estate agent for your needs is one of the most important decisions that factor into the quick and successful sale of a home. In order to get top dollar for your property without having to deal with the accompanying headaches, you need to choose a realtor who is a good fit for your personal needs and preferences. Here are three things to look for when choosing a real estate agent.

Relevant Experience

The primary consideration to make when hiring your real estate agent is to look at their relevant experience. Getting a referral is one of the best ways to vet the experience of a particular agent. It is vital that the agent you pick has experience selling your type of property. For example, if you are looking to sell a single-family residence, you do not want to hire an agent who specializes in apartment buildings or condos. You need your agent to also have ample experience selling real estate in your particular geographical area.

Personality

When it comes to appealing to potential buyers, it is a realtor's personality that will score the most points. In addition to having a congenial personality, the realtor that you end up with needs to convey an air of professionalism. You want to pick a realtor who is warm and engaging but who also comes across as responsible. Certain personality traits in realtors lend themselves to success more readily than others. But regardless of the personality of your realtor, the most important consideration is how you click with them personally.

Honesty

You will never be happy with your realtor if you can’t trust them. You should avoid agents who use glib language or who speak in vague terms. Instead, you want an agent who is always up-front about the prospects of selling your home for the price you want. You will know that you can trust the agent if they present evidence and hard data about the market in your area rather than just giving you unsubstantiated opinion. The last thing you need is a realtor who says what they think you want to hear even if it is not rooted in fact.

Choosing a real estate agent is not a decision that you should take lightly. The right agent can be the difference between putting thousands of extra dollars in your pocket or not. So make sure to interview at least a few different prospects before making your decision.

Including Mallory Jane Photography in your marketing plan will make your listings sell more quickly, stand out online, and impress potential buyers. View my portfolio here.

Is Your Home Ready for Show?

Selling a home can be a nerve-wracking time for a homeowner. It suddenly seems that every choice you have made regarding your home is thrown into sharp relief. However, don’t rush into spending money on big projects. Instead, as you prepare your home, focus on these things.

An Up-to-Date Appearance

When you live in a home for a long period, your style and appearance may fall behind the times. This is especially true in the kitchen and bathroom, where clean and up-to-date styles can make or break a sale. The big issue is money. A total renovation of a kitchen could cost thousands of dollars, and it may not be recouped in your final sale. Instead, try cost-effective methods to update your look. Cabinets can have the hardware replaced or maybe repainted for a fraction of the cost of new. Roll-out drawers can add to cabinet space with easy DIY kits, while you can use peel and stick backsplash to quickly modernize your look. A nice, clean faucet can also be a good investment.

It Appeals to the Senses

Having an experience that appeals to the senses of sight and smell is a major plus. It's important to manage the smell of your home to avoid unpleasant odors. Air it out well to get rid of musty or unpleasant smells and find the source of anything unpleasant. Have someone not familiar with your home walk around to ensure you are not missing smells that you have become accustomed to, such as pet odor. Finally, use positive smells from candles, fresheners or classic baked treats to set a positive and inviting experience.

Visually, present a clean home with a fresh appearance. Open blinds and make sure your lights have working bulbs, move furniture away from the walls a bit and add area rugs in larger spaces, even over carpet. Stick some fresh flowers in a vase in a visually important or obvious location such as kitchen counters.

Set a Good First Impression

For a buyer, a first impression goes a long way. You may have a gorgeous interior, but if the rest of the home is a mess, buyers will be scared away. Spruce up your exterior by washing your home’s face and cleaning windows. Consider a fresh and bright paint job to your front door along with fresh flowers planted nearby. Pay extra attention to your entryway as well since this will be the first part of the home a buyer looks at, as well as the first time they will envision themselves living in the home. Remove personal effects such as pictures, shoes or religious iconography. Instead, place potted plants, low tables and more generic but welcoming art or signage.

Getting a home show-ready is no easy feat. For many, simply cleaning and decluttering can be a major effort. However, owners who put extra thought and effort into the appeal of their home, or those that seek professional assistance are most primed to reap greater rewards. It doesn't always make a great investment of time or money to make noticeable changes, and it may just be the thing to get your home sold.

Once your home is looking great, spruce up your marketing with professional photos

3 Essential Improvements to Make to a Property Before Selling It

When you sell your house, the last thing you want is for the process to drag out over several months. Most home buyers are not interested in making renovations or repairs immediately. If you want your house to sell faster, consider three essential improvements to make to the property before putting it on the market.

Painting the Interior Walls

If you have lived in your house for a while, you may have grown fond of your interior paint colors. Maybe you don't notice the smudges and marks that have occurred over the years, but old paint and dirty walls can be off-putting to buyers. Painting the interior walls in a contemporary color, such as light gray, can make the interior look fresh and updated. Neutral colors work with most furniture and accessories and won't put off the majority of potential buyers.

Updating the Plumbing

Old plumbing, in addition to a few other things, can make the selling process more complicated. Plumbing, whether seen or unseen, can be a deal-breaker when selling a house. Faucets and hardware that appear rusty and corroded won't make a positive impression on a homebuyer. Making cosmetic updates, such as replacing outdated hardware with pieces in a contemporary finish, such as brushed nickel, gives an updated look to baths and kitchens. Older houses may have galvanized steel pipes that show signs of corrosion. If an inspector finds leaking and corroded pipes, that could result in a buyer deciding to look elsewhere for a home or try to bargain your price down.

Fixing the HVAC System

One of the questions homebuyers typically ask is, "How old is the HVAC unit?" When a unit is more than 10 years old, it may no longer be under warranty. If an HVAC system is not working correctly during the pre-closing inspection, that could turn off a potential buyer. Before putting a house on the market, the owner should have an HVAC repair company evaluate the unit and repair it if needed. If the system is beyond repair, replacing it is the best option. When advertising the house for sale, a mention of a new HVAC system can generate more interest in the property.

First-time homebuyers may not have the financial resources for major repairs or upgrades. Making essential improvements can benefit the seller and buyer since the house will probably sell faster and the buyer gets a move-in-ready home.

Showcase the beauty of a home with quality real estate photos. Click here to see our pricing list!

3 Easy Tips for Preparing a Listing That's Still Being Lived In

As any realtor knows, listing a home when a family is still living in it presents many problems. After all, if someone is still living there, it will be very difficult for prospective buyers to imagine themselves and their own possessions in the new house. However, that doesn't mean an occupied home is impossible to list or sell, and with the right preparation, the transaction can be done. Here are three easy tips that will allow you to sell a home with someone still living in it.

Keep It Neat and Clean

A dirty home is distracting. It gives the impression that the family living in it doesn't care about basic things like maintenance, and this may scare off prospective buyers. The mess will also stop someone who may be interested in buying it from seeing themselves living in the house. Furthermore, a home that is caked in dirt or clutter will distract from all of the home's good features. To that end, make sure the seller keeps the home as neat and as clean as possible. This ensures that all of the home's various assets are highlighted.

Move Out All But the Essentials

Remember, the most critical facet of any move is to ensure that potential buyers can imagine themselves inside the house. That's not going to be possible if the current seller has personal effects, furniture, or various knickknacks scattered throughout the house. A home that is for sale should be as empty as humanly possible in order to ensure that the house looks ready for occupation by the new owners. To that end, declutter the house, and get rid of everything but what is absolutely required by the current occupants to live. When you can, move out extra furniture, and put it into storage.

Picture Angles Matter

Picture angles are always important when it comes to preparing a listing, but when the house is occupied, they are more important than ever. Pictures must be taken in a way that emphasizes the home's various strengths, even with someone still living there. When you take your pictures, concentrate on the empty space. Don't try to hide the fact that someone is living in the home, but don't emphasize it either.

There is no question that having someone still living in a home adds challenges to listing it. However, the presence of the current residents doesn't mean it's impossible to sell. Follow these tips, and you will be well on your way towards successfully listing a still-occupied home.

What You Need to Know Before Using a Drone to Capture Photos of a Home for Sale

Few technologies have emerged and changed our lives more rapidly than the advent and development of drones. Only a few years ago, these acrobatic, remote-controlled aircrafts were the stuff of science fiction. Today, not only are they are a fun hobby but a useful tool as well. One of the most popular uses for drones is aerial photography. Using this technology for capturing photographs for a home listing can add a great degree of professionalism and impact. However, there are a few factors you first need to know.

Get the Right Kind

Not all drones are equal. As a general rule, there are two primary categories of drones which are toys and tools. While many of the smallest "toy" class drones feature cameras on board, the quality of the images will not be suitable for a home listing. Small drones can also be difficult or even impossible to control in outdoor environments or windy conditions. Thus, this is an area where spending slightly more money upfront is a worthwhile investment. Even professional drones are surprisingly affordable, especially when the value that they provide is considered.

Respect the Neighbors

When using a drone in a residential neighborhood, it is very important to be respectful of any neighbors. Many individuals are leery of drones operating near their homes. Often, this fear stems not from malice but rather a misunderstanding. If you intend to use a drone to photograph a residential property, take a few minutes to explain your goals to the neighbors. A simple explanation can go a long way to alleviate concerns. Further, take care to respect any property boundaries. If your drone passes over the property it could be considered a private nuisance. Thus, make sure to keep the drone above the proper land.

Practice in an Open Area

Modern drones are surprisingly simple to fly. However, smooth and safe operation still requires practice. Often, residential properties are a relatively treacherous location for piloting a drone, given the myriad of trees and other obstacles. To make sure you do not risk any property or the safety of your drone, it is a good idea to practice drone piloting in an open area free of any obstructions until you feel fully comfortable.

Whether you’re a realtor, a professional photographer, or simply someone looking to list their own home, aerial drone photography is a great way to improve a property listing. Drone technology is improving every day, and the device is becoming more and more useful and accessible. With just a few simple precautions, you will come to realize that a drone is an indispensable tool.

Easy Ways to Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal

The front of your home is the first impression of the entire property. If you are planning to sell, it is vital that you spruce up to attract the attention of buyers and not set a poor impression. Thankfully, there are plenty of quick and easy DIY ideas that you can implement for little cost.

Cleaning Up the Yard

The first thing to do is to make sure that your yard is clean and neat. Grass should be mowed at kept at an appropriate level. Edge your walkways so that they are not encroached by weeds and grass. Add mulch around trees or along your home’s foundation, especially where dirt is showing. Planting shrubs, flowers and other greenery gives your yard some colorful pop. Bushes and trees should be trimmed neatly. Power-wash your sidewalks and patios to remove dirt and grime. In fall, leaves should be cleared regularly, while in winter your walkways must be kept free of snow and ice. Make sure that any clutter, trash or dead plants are removed.

The Roof

Asphalt shingle roofs are quite common, but they have a relatively short lifespan and if you haven't maintained them, it can easily negatively impact your home's curb appeal. While replacing a whole roof right as you plan to sell may not be financially feasible, ensure that the roof at least looks clean. Missing, broken or stained roof shingles can be replaced or cleaned. Watch especially for green algae type growth and remove it. Don’t forget to clean your gutters as well.

Color Splashes

Part of the curb appeal is making your home stand out from the crowd. One way to do this is to add some color to the front. Usually, this can be done with decorations on your front door or by using window shutters and planter boxes. While you can certainly opt to purchase a new door, a simple paint job will probably suffice. Just make sure to use the right paint type. Try and choose a color that complements but stands out from your exterior. It can make your home pop when compared to neighbors.

Simple Decor

This is all about adding homey touches to your exterior. If you have a big front porch, consider adding some outdoor furniture or a swing. A dark entryway can be transformed with some outdoor lighting. A birdbath, benches or antique or rustic outdoor items can be placed around or near trees for a beautiful display. Signs, wreaths and hangings can brighten up a drab exterior or doorway. When it comes to selling your home, getting bang for your buck is important. These inexpensive ideas can help put a buyer in the right mood. A colorful, well-maintained exterior invites and excites. It can put you on the path to a successful sale.

To show off the look of your home once you’re ready to sell, contact me to schedule a real estate photography session!

Finding the Best Time to Sell Your Home

After thinking it over, you’ve finally made the decision to sell your house. However, that's sometimes not as easy as it might seem. If there is one thing that you need to focus on when selling your home, it’s the timing. Granted, it’s possible to sell your home at any time, but it’s important to sell it as soon as possible. With the right timing, you’ll be able to sell your home quickly, and you may even net a bigger profit.

Making the Most of the Summer Sun

Summer is a great time to sell your home. Many people take vacations during this part of the year. Others want to get their children set up in school before it starts. There are various reasons why you should list your home during the summer. However, there are a few cons as well. Depending on your area, the hot weather can put a damper on anyone’s mood and easily dissuade buyers from house hunting.

Fall is Not Too Late

Fall is a season in which selling your home can be more difficult, but compared to winter, you do have a better chance. There is much less competition in the market, so you might have more than a few callers. A lot of buyers are looking to get a new home before the cold weather hits, so it can be a great time to sell. This time of year might also attract buyers who were picky in the spring but didn’t find a house and are now on a time crunch to buy a new place with fewer options.

Winter Blues

Winter is the time of year when it's very difficult to sell your home for a lot of reasons. Your flowers are dead or dormant, and your trees are bare, which doesn't do much for your curb appeal. This is also the season when everyone is preparing for the holidays and looking forward to them, so house hunting isn’t exactly a priority. If you're not hearing much about your home, you can take on some home improvement projects in the meantime. If you need any repairs completed before selling, winter is the perfect time to do them.

Springtime Possibilities

Almost every real estate agent will tell you the same thing. Spring is the prime time to sell a house. Statistically, May is the best month of the year for selling homes. Compared to the blistering heat of summer, spring has the perfect house-hunting temperature. In addition, using spring break is a great way to let your children get in on the action.

Although each season has its pros and cons, deciding on the best time to sell your home is ultimately your choice to make, and it often depends on factors beyond marketing. If you must list your property in late fall or winter, just be prepared to either show some flexibility in the negotiations or wait till spring.

Once you’re ready to sell your home, call us to schedule real estate photography!

Easy Fixes to Make Your Bathroom More Attractive to Buyers

In order to sell your home as quickly as possible, your showings must first entice interested parties. While you'll want to make sure that the first impression buyers have of your house is the best one, you don't have to break the bank in order to do so. Simple fixes in areas such as your bathroom can make a world of difference when appealing to potential purchasers.

New Tiles

The type of tile that you have in your bathroom can set the tone and aesthetic for the rest of the space. Since tile is a design feature that tends to stand out and be noticed first, it is important that you choose your tile and its layout carefully. This is something else that doesn't have to cost a lot of money if you just use your creativity. For example, laying your tiles at a slant instead of horizontally can make a huge difference in the overall look.

New Sink

Installing a new sink can add an elegant look to your bathroom without costing a ton of money. In fact, you can even get creative and use a recycled basin but add new faucets to make it look more luxurious. New faucets with efficient features can also help make your home attractive to potential buyers. If you are not experienced or comfortable working with plumbing, you should hire a general contractor to handle this part for you.

Color design

While you may be tempted to just choose a wall color because it is pretty or that shade is your favorite, when it comes to selling your home, this is something that should not be taken lightly. Color speaks to people's emotions and can actually make or break your sale. Whatever color design you choose, it should be cohesive so that the colors mesh well with one another. Also, keep in mind the look you are going for. Whether you are attempting to achieve a comfortable ambiance, a playful feel or a more formal motif, keep your color scheme consistent.

These are just some of the simple ways that you can help buyers fall in love with your home's interior the minute they lay eyes on it. A great design should be able to speak to potential buyers' emotions so that they feel good when they are in the space and can visualize themselves living in it.

Once you’re ready to sell your home, let us help you with stunning real estate photographs!

How to Prepare Your Home Exterior for Listing Photos

When you decide to sell your home, you want to make sure it sells quickly and that it is sold to a family who will love it as much as you did. A key ingredient in ensuring your house is a hot listing on the market is the photos used in that listing. One of the best ways of ensuring your residence looks good is by preparing your home's exterior before those photos are actually taken.

Trim the Landscape

An unruly lawn can make or break a home sale because most potential buyers have little to no interest in purchasing a house with a jungle in the front yard. If you have hedges that need trimming, now is the time to do it. If your bushes need to be shaped or your plants need some care, there is no better time to tend to these matters than just before having professional pictures taken for a listing. In addition, be sure to mow the lawn and weed around the shrubbery to create a neat and tidy outdoor appearance. Landscaping can increase the value of your property, and efforts in this direction will also enhance how easily your home sells.

Fix Outside Damage

Buyers don't want to invest in a home that looks as though it needs work. You'll want to ensure that there is no visible damage to the home's exterior. This includes the driveway as well as the yard. You can fill minor cracks in your driveway asphalt with tar within an hour or two. You can also correct some of the flaws in the house by repainting. Minor fixes like asphalt repair and paint touch-ups take little time yet make a huge impact.

Ensure a Neutral Look

If your home's exterior is a little too personalized, don't hesitate to make it more neutral. Removing zany yard decorations or making the decision to paint over wild, unique color schemes in favor of a more neutral and subdued palette can attract buyers in search of their long-term residence.

When houses look appealing from the outside, they tend to sell faster. By preparing your home for the photos that will be used in the listing, you will increase the odds of selling it and the speed with which it moves. Though these things do require some time and commitment, you'll be glad you put forth the effort when you close on the sale.

3 Assessments to Do Before Selling Your Home

When it comes to selling a home, the price is never set in stone. There are a variety of factors that come into play when determining the present value of a house. Although it can be a little frustrating for homebuyers, this constant change in price can actually provide you with a better closing number. However, before this can happen, you will need to conduct a few assessments.

Home Inspection

When it comes to real estate, the fewer surprises, the better. Therefore, before putting up your home for sale, you need to schedule a home inspection. The typical price of a home inspection can run between $300 and $500. Although it's not a cheap service, you as the homeowner should cover the cost in order to get things moving faster when potential buyers come along. Now, when it comes to choosing the right inspector, references are going to be your best friend. Unfortunately, most inspectors are not required to be licensed by the state, and, therefore, word of mouth might be your best bet. It is quite the investment, so research wisely.

Independent Survey

Often a property survey will be conducted by the buyer in order to prove to his or her mortgage lender that the property is worth their investment. However, you as the owner should conduct your own independent survey as well. A recent independent survey is usually more reliable than old surveys that could easily be out of date. Thus, you will need to locate a surveyor company. Surveyors research your property, and then come and actually walk the property lines to determine the worth of the land itself. Although most do a good job, it’s wisest to conduct multiple surveys if possible so you can choose the best one.

Pest Inspection

Things such as the condition of the pipes, air conditioning, and electrical units are a very important part of evaluating a home. Pests such as mice and termites threaten these features of the home, and there’s a possibility that your home might contain some of those pests. Before putting your home on the market, make sure to bring in a pest control service to evaluate the condition of your property from a pest perspective. This will provide you and your buyer with the peace of mind that their new home will stay in good condition.

It’s not easy to sell a house, but there are things that you can do to make it easier, as well as increase your likelihood of a positive outcome. One of the most important things you can do is conduct the right assessments to reduce the likelihood of any surprises coming up in the closing process, as well as price your property more accurately.

Need someone to take beautiful, enticing photos of your property? I’m the one for the job.

3 Minor Improvements That Will Massively Change the Feel of Your Interior

Your home is one of the places where you spend a significant amount of time. You want it to be as comfortable and cozy as possible. After all, the type of design and look of your home can have a huge impact on the way it makes you feel. Even colors and textures can trigger certain emotions and moods whenever you enter a space. If you want to be able to redesign your home's ambiance without breaking the bank, here are a few tips to help you get started.

More Light

Lighting is such a big deal in design that people spend thousands of dollars having a professional design a lighting scheme for their home. Not only can it impact the way everything looks, including you, but it can also change the way your space feels as well. Spaces that are well-lit tend to seem bigger while spaces with lots of shadowy parts will feel even smaller. Mirrors also help small spaces appear more spacious. If you want to really make a room feel larger, adding proper lighting along with mirrors can really do the trick.

Paint

Paint is one of the easiest ways to change the look and feel of a room. It is not very expensive, and painting is something that you can do yourself. Taking a little time to research some color schemes and how various colors trigger certain moods will help you pick the right color paint for your particular space. Just remember to always do the ceiling first. Working from the top down will keep you from having to touch up any splattered paint and make for a cleaner and faster paint job.

Slipcovers

Using slipcovers over your couch or chairs is a great way to add a new look without making a huge purchase. These work very well if you are having a dinner party and want to add a touch of elegance to your dining room. Adding white slipcovers over your dining room chairs can add a sophisticated look to the room without the need for a huge commitment. The fact that they can be removed and thrown in the washing machine is a great reason to consider slipcovers.

It doesn't take much to have the home of your dreams if you are willing to be a little creative and do some research. Knowing the colors that work best in different rooms will help you to achieve total comfort, no matter which part of your home you're enjoying. Even the bathroom can feel like a spa if you add the right colors and decor pieces.

To show off the interior of your home once you’re ready to sell, contact me to schedule a real estate photography session!

How to Stage Your Backyard

When people look at a real estate listing to buy a house, often the first thing that they look at is the pictures. To have the best chance of selling your house, you’ll want to make sure that you stage not only your home but your backyard as well. Staging a home and its surrounding landscape allows potential buyers to see the full potential of a space. Here are a few tips to help you stage your backyard so that it looks as welcoming and appealing as possible to potential buyers.

Clean Everything

The first thing that you should do when staging a backyard is to clean it. No one likes seeing a picture of a messy yard. When you clean it, make sure you do things like mowing the lawn, clearing out any kind of debris like twigs, rocks, and branches and plucking out any dead flowers. If you have any pets, chances are their toys are scattered about, so be sure to pick them up. Furthermore, if your pet has a dog house, it’s best that you remove it. Last, remove overhanging tree branches and give your shrubbery a trim so it’s not an overgrown mess. Doing these things will help the potential buyer be able to better see what their lives could be like in this backyard rather than seeing all the remnants of your life in it.

Consider What’s Trending

Before you start staging your backyard, it’s important that you look up what’s trending first. That way, you can market to the right people and boost the likelihood of making a sale. However, keep in mind that trends can go out of style randomly, so it’s crucial that you act fast. Among the outdoor design trends, historic casual is expected to be popular next year. Also, try not to go overboard with a trend. There needs to be a balance between style, comfort, and simplicity.

Make the Necessary Repairs

If you have anything in your backyard that needs to be repaired, fix it immediately. Fill in any cracks that you may have in your patio and make sure to resurface your walkways. If you have a deck, power wash it to get rid of any lingering debris. If your deck has any peeling, you should add a coat of stain. Don’t forget to take a look at your fence. It may need to be repaired or repainted. You’ll know that your fence needs to be repaired if the wood is rotten, a few of the boards are damaged or broken, or the connections holding your fence together are loose.

The appearance of your backyard can be the determining factor of you making a sale or having to move on to the next potential buyer. Use your imagination and see where it takes you!

What Not to Do When Posting Photos of Your Home for Sale Online

If you are getting ready to sell your home, one of your first steps is likely to be posting it online for people to see. Listing the address, price and contact information are all important. However, one of the most important parts of your listing is the pictures because they're what will catch people's attention and make them more interested.

Don’t Post Too Few

When people are looking to seriously buy something as large and expensive as a house, they want to see what they are buying beforehand. They don't want to see one picture of the front and then move on. They want to see everything. The more pictures you share, the more information prospective buyers have about your home. Furthermore, there may be something in a picture that buyers fall in love with and have to see. For instance, if the master bedroom still boasts the original hardwood floors and stained-glass windows, that might be the picture that gets them to show up and make an offer.

Don’t Be Misleading

Showcase the best parts of your home, but don't try to hide its flaws. If there is a huge hole in the wall and you cover it with a tapestry, that's deception. Furthermore, if your house is in truly bad shape, but all you post are the two rooms that look great and claim it's "like new," that could even be considered false advertising. If the images are too deceptive, then it could be illegal.

Don't Take Pictures at Night or in Bad Weather

Take your pictures on beautiful, bright sunny days. Use as much natural lighting as possible, and avoid taking pictures in dim, dreary light. Your house will look much better on a pretty day. If you are a good photographer, you can experiment with taking your pictures at dawn or during twilight for an ambient glow, but never take photos when it is raining or about to storm.

Basically, be honest with your photos and make them look as appealing as possible. Share plenty of them so buyers don't have to wonder about the rooms you aren't showing, and never use deceptive techniques. If a buyer is truly interested, they are going to show up to look at the home in person anyway, so make sure your pictures are reflective of the true state of your home.

For your best chances of selling your home, you should have a professional photographer take your real estate photos. Contact me today to schedule a session!

Common Pain Points That Make Your Exterior Less Than Picture Perfect

Are you preparing to put your home up for sale? The housing market has mostly bounced back since the recession, so it’s a lot more competitive than it was a decade ago. Buyers are more discerning and will evaluate your home with a keen eye for potential problems and repairs. Oftentimes, buyers will rule out certain properties by simply looking at the pictures posted online. You can make a great first impression by ensuring your home’s exterior looks well-maintained and stylish in the real estate photographs. Here are some updates you can make to improve the curb appeal of your home without breaking the bank.

Painting

Exterior paint has a huge impact on your home’s first impression. Buyers will notice if the paint looks old, chipped, flakey, or dirty. Luckily, a new coat of paint is an affordable investment in your home’s curb appeal. When you update your paint, choose neutral colors that are popular with buyers. Since you’re preparing your home for sale, it’s best to avoid bright, aggressive, or quirky colors that may turn buyers away. Instead, choose colors that will make an inviting impression in the real estate photographs.

Driveway

When a potential buyer pulls up to your house and steps out of their car, they’ll get an up-close look at your driveway. Buyers will take notice of damage like cracks, crumbles, and decayed asphalt that lower the driveway’s ability to protect vehicles. If that sounds like your driveway, you should consider replacing it before you schedule your real estate photos. There are different types of asphalt you can use to improve your property. A new asphalt driveway withstands extreme weather, reduces sounds, and protects vehicles.

Landscaping

Landscaping has the power to make a home look classy and welcoming or wild and decrepit. Neglected lawns make a bad impression with their dead patches, mud, and weeds. Unkempt trees are not only unsightly but can lead to injuries or property damage caused by falling branches. Potential buyers are sure to take note of the state of the landscape and how much they’ll need to invest in restoring it. 

Selling your home can be a nerve-wracking process. Making a good first impression in real estate pictures is the best way to catch the attention of a potential buyer. A few affordable improvements to the building’s exterior will ensure your buyer feels like they’re coming home!