Properties with professional photos sell over 32% faster on average than listings without—that’s according to a Ruby Home analysis done by analysing thousands of home sales across the US. While similar UK-specific statistics were unavailable, it’s clear quality images make an impact in capturing buyers’ attention. As the saying goes, a photo speaks a thousand words. For sellers looking to accelerate the sale of their home, professional photography delivers immense value at a small cost.
The Instant First Impression a Photo Makes
In the age of internet home searches, buyers form initial opinions based solely on photos. With the swipe of a finger, they decide if a listing merits closer inspection or gets discarded for the next. Top-notch photography presents homes in the best possible light, emphasizing desirable features through skillful angles, lighting, and editing. Crisp, bright images pique interest and drive engagement right from first sight.
Meanwhile, dark, cluttered or blurry photos lower perceived home value before potential buyers can even step inside. And low-quality smartphone snapshots rarely capture a true feel for the space and flow of rooms either. Though seemingly minor details, photography missteps at the start of the buyer journey risk turning away qualified prospects at the critical moment first impressions form.
The Story of Good Photographs Tell
Beyond aesthetics alone, stellar photography also allows sellers to showcase what makes their particular property special through visual storytelling. Wide-angle shots play up room proportions, multiple images build continuity between adjoining areas, and small details tell the home’s unique story.
Maybe it’s a cozy reading nook bathed in natural light, or a sprawling backyard decked out for entertainment. Photographers know how to highlight such standout amenities that emotionalise a listing in buyers’ minds. Additionally, pedestrian images rarely convey the feelings of comfort, tranquility, spaciousness, etc. that turn a house into a desirable home. Only professional-grade photos transition listings from virtual browsing to in-person showings.
Speeding Up the Closing Process
Once buyers step inside for viewings, professional photography provides another advantage—truth in advertising. When photographs present an authentic portrayal aligned with actual living spaces, buyers don’t experience letdowns that shatter the illusion snapped online. congruence between perceived and actual conditions keeps buyers excited about making an offer after seeing your home first-hand.
In contrast, misleading photos set false expectations that crash on reveal. Buyers may then take more convincing that the home still suits their needs, slowing down the offer and negotiation timeline. Or worse—they may distrust the seller enough to rescind interest altogether. Only by commissioning honest photography can you sidestep such pitfalls down the transaction cycle while expediting closing.
Affordable, High Returns
Compared to hefty investments of time, money and effort in preparing a home for sale through renovations, staging, etc., professional photography requires a tiny fraction of resources. For £200-500—less than 1% of the typical asking price for a UK home—sellers gain the skills of experts armed with top-end cameras and editing tools. Yet the visual appeal generated compounds the sales effectiveness of all other upfront investments.
With enhanced buyer appeal from properly lit, crisply focused images, homes practically showcase themselves online. Photography helps quality listings rise to the top of search rankings and secure immediate in-person previews. By elegantly fulfilling visual expectations once buyers visit, professional photographs maintain and build on the excitement first kindled on screen. For those considering selling soon, skimping on photography costs is an unwise last place to cut corners.