If you’re selling or renting a property, at some stage in the process you’ll have to consider whether or not you should invest in getting professional photographs taken. The keyword in this statement is “invest” as these images truly are an investment. So you may be wondering what will be the return on your investment? We will discuss this in our blog, along with the importance of professional photography when marketing in the digital age.
Leasing a Property
When it comes to leasing a property, two key factors largely affect its success; minimising periods where the property is without renters and attracting the quality tenants.
When it comes to getting these two things right, it really does come down to how you market your property. With that being said, visuals are everything. So much so that research has suggested that professionally photographed properties receive far greater levels of enquiries, and are leased up to 70% faster than their less visually appealing counterparts.
If still in doubt ask yourself this question, how much am I losing every week my property is not being leased? If the answer far outweighs the cost of hiring a photographer, then your decision should be clear.
Selling a Property
The stakes are considerably higher when selling a property. Inevitably the decisions you make whilst marketing your property could be the difference of thousands of dollars. Therefore, ensuring you present your property to its fullest potential is essential. With a high percentage of prospective buyers viewing properties online first, you’ll want to ensure your home stands out for all the right reasons. After all, a higher number of bidders will create more competition, putting you in the best possible position to get the maximum financial outcome.
When considering whether or not you should invest in a professional photographer, again, the research speaks for itself.
- 32% of homes with high-quality photographs sell faster than those without visuals.
- 69.8% who use professional photography believe that doing so decreases days on the market.
- Properties with professional images get 61% more views.
- 90% of buyers cited, “The house listing presented with fine pictures fascinated their imagination and contributed in effortless decision making”.
How should I choose a Photographer?
Your agent should be able to coordinate this and set you up with the best possible fit. However, if there are a range of photographers available, some of the questions you should ask yourself or the potential photographer include;
Do they have a background specifically in photographing property?
Although they may be an amazing wedding or lifestyle photographer, this does not necessarily mean their skill set will translate to property. How property is shot, especially in regards to the lens used, differs substantially from the equipment used in more lifestyle-led shoots. Therefore if they don’t have experience with this style of photography, you may want to look elsewhere.
Do they shoot as well as edit?
Some photographers shoot but outsource their editing. We would recommend choosing a photographer with the capability to do both. Not only will it save you money, but when they are shooting they will be conscious of how their shots will affect the editing process.
Do they have a portfolio?
This might be the most important question to ask, as previous work is always the best indicator of future work. When reviewing their portfolio look for a range of work. Have they shot; indoors and outdoors, apartments and free-standing homes, furnished and unfurnished? It’s important that they can adapt to what’s presented to them and still deliver a consistent product.
If you’re looking to lease or sell in the Singleton area, we’re here to help.
For a limited time we will be providing a free professional photography package for every new management. To hear more about this offer and our Property Management Service Guarantee get in touch with us today.
