Good photographs sell homes. Bad photographs don’t.

70%-80% of home buyers are starting their home searches on the Internet these days.  On-line photographs often determine which homes the home buyers choose to see in person.  A great photo will generate more calls to the real estate agent and lead to more showings.

A clever and funny trend has emerged dealing with the topic of bad photographs. Real Estate Blogs across the country have started keeping a daily log of bad MLS photographs that have been submitted to various MLS boards and marketing sites. 

Some of these photos are really funny!  If you need a laugh today check out some of the "Bad MLS photos blogs".

• Connecticut Real Estate Blog featuring Bad MLS photos of the day. This one was written up in a major newspaper.
• Norm Fisher’s Video presentation of Unbelievably Bad Real Estate photos –Very Funny!  Guaranteed laughs from this video.
• Very Vintage Vegas – Las Vegas Blog- Bad Photo of the Day -The first blog I heard of the idea from.

If you are going to sell your home in Southeast Texas insist on good photographs.  It is part of the full-service you are paying for.  Some real estate agents are better photographers than others.  During the listing presentation ask about photographs.  The Beaumont MLS allows for nine photographs of each listing.  Make sure you get at least six.  Coldwell Banker insists that all homes featured on their website have at least six photographs.  This change just went into effect.  If you are surfing older listings on the net you may see less than six.  But, no more.  Its six photographs or else.  The exception is undeveloped land or new unfinished construction.  Who wants to see six photos of 2x4s and a concrete foundation.

Remember good photographs sell homes. 

Bad photographs – may give home buyers a good laugh- but they aren’t going to rush to call their REALTOR and say, "I must see that home!  Yep, the blurry gray one with the newspaper blowing through the yard. I must see it today."

To borrow a line from Uncle Jack at Very Vintage Vegas, "The only thing worse than a bad photo is no photo at all."

If you are selling your home ask the REALTOR about the photographs they will be taking.  If you have more questions about listing your home ask me.   

What are your thoughts.  Would you like to see a bad MLS photo of the week?  Would you rather see the best MLS photo of the week?  SE Texas Real Estate Talk wants your opinion.