Throughout most of the pandemic, markets across the country favoured sellers. Since inventories were historically low in many cities, buyers were scooping up whatever they could afford, often competing with others in bidding wars. Many markets across Canada have shifted and are more balanced, some even leaning toward buyers markets. It is still a great time to sell, but sellers are putting more effort into preparing their homes to sell as the competition is steep. A great way to make your home stand out from competing listings is by considering its screen appeal. Here are our five tips for staging your home specifically for photos and videos.
What is Screen Appeal?
When prospective buyers begin their home search, chances are they will first view your property online. Many will decide whether or not they want to book a property viewing based on the photos and/or videos they see of a listing; this is referred to as a property’s screen appeal. When there are more listings available for buyers to choose from, it’s essential to make your home stand out from the rest online, especially when it will influence a buyer’s first impression of your property. Here are our five tips for improving your home’s screen appeal.
1. Declutter your home
Clutter does not photograph well and it can also make your home feel uninviting. If you’re already preparing to move consider de-cluttering your home before you list it. It will make your future move easier and will improve your home’s screen appeal. This is the time to donate old books, furniture, and even clothes that are taking up space in your home. Prospective buyers will look in your closets, garages, and any other storage space during a property viewing, so although you should focus on the main spaces like the kitchen, living room, and bedrooms for your screen appeal, don’t forget about the other spaces that people will see during an open house or viewing.
2. A coat of paint goes a long way
Bright spaces tend to look larger and more inviting and paint is a great way to achieve this. Prospective buyers often prefer a home that is painted in one neutral colour versus a variety of colours. A light, neutral colour can also make your home look larger and more spacious in photos and videos. Remember, your goal should be to make your home appeal to the general public, and wall colours such as light greys, warm whites, and neutral beiges can make it easier for buyers to visualize their furniture in your property. This will translate into your photos and videos as well.
3. Make your house sparkle!
Dust, fingerprints on mirrors, and even discoloured grout can show up in pictures and videos. Clean your home from top to bottom and make sure to wipe down walls, mirrors, and all surfaces, dust and vacuum (even behind furniture), and don’t forget to clean things like window tracts and the inside of appliances (if they’re included in the sale). If your budget allows, consider hiring professional cleaners. Many cleaning companies offer cleaning services to prepare a home that is about to hit the market.
4. Consider what repairs may increase the value of your home
This is a great opportunity to repair any holes or nicks in walls, damaged or worn floors, and remove any unnecessary hooks or nails from your walls. Walk around your whole property and determine which other repairs can make your home look more inviting. A new coat of paint on the porch, repairs to the deck, or even some updated landscaping can make a big impact without denting your budget.
5. Work with a real estate agent that can help
Before you hire a real estate agent, discuss what type of photography and/or videography they will invest in to showcase your property. Ask them for their opinion and what type of work they think you should complete to improve your home’s screen appeal. Some real estate agents also offer staging services that can give your home the wow factor.
