4 Mistakes to avoid when listing your home

by Terese Ferrara DRE#01949191 04/23/2023

Mistakes to avoid when listing your home featured image

One essential part of the home selling process is how you advertise your property. Having quality photos can make or break the first perception potential homebuyers have of your property, so avoiding a few rookie mistakes can help you maintain the quality of your listing photos.  

Not taking enough photos

In the age of digital photography, you can never take too many pictures. Try to experiment with different lighting, angles and setups, and don’t shy away from taking as many photos as necessary to get the perfect shots, showcasing your beautiful property. 

Avoid close-ups

Your home should be spotlessly clean and tidy when taking photos; however, you don’t have to get a shot of every small nook and cranny. Instead, consider taking wide shots, which can help your home appear spacious and more welcoming.  

Be mindful of mirror reflections & other distractions

Even the best shot in the world can be ruined when unplanned objects or reflections of shadows appear of the photographer. These things can distract your audience from the focus of the photo, your home. Plan your angles so you don’t get any flashes, glare or reflections in your photographs. 

It’s best to take your pets out of the room or area before you start shooting photos. Remember, potential home buyers may not love your cat or dog in the same way you do.  

Not using time of day to your advantage

The different (or lack) of lighting your home receives throughout the day can make or break your photos. Consider taking photos of your home at midday, when there are the least number of shadows present.  

Then, take some photos at golden hour (just before the sun sets) to capture warmer tones. Finally, right after dusk, turn the lights on inside your home and take some shots from outside to give the illusion of a warm, cozy place where the light are always on. 

By being dynamic, creative and open to different perspectives, your listing photos can pop wonderfully and showcase your home with style. 




About the Author
Author

Terese Ferrara DRE#01949191

Terese Ferrara is a long-time resident of the Bay Area and has been a partner with the Goss | Ferrara Real Estate Team. She and her husband raised their two daughters in San Jose, where she successfully continues to build her real estate career. 

After earning a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University, she went on to teach in the San Jose Unified School District for 9 years. Transitioning to real estate was a logical choice, utilizing her patient demeanor to educate all levels of buyers and sellers. Knowledge and experience demonstrate her vested interest in delivering the highest level of care and professionalism to every client. She consistently strives to exceed her client’s expectations throughout the entire real estate transaction and remains a trusted advisor long after each close. 

As a board member on KW Bay Area Estates’ Associate Leadership Council (ALC), she aids in support of culture and professional development strategies for over 180 associates. Terese is also a Director for the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors Foundation, which supports community service initiatives in Silicon Valley. 

Terese is the consummate real estate professional dedicated to providing unparalleled service to her clients through ongoing training and education, keeping her on top of the dynamic market and latest real estate trends. Her high-touch approach coupled with honesty and integrity support her commitment to her client’s real estate needs.