You may remember that I took a tour through the local MLS to look at recent Lilburn listings to see how many had pictures and virtual tours. The post was called Survey of New Listings. I was actually kind of shocked at how few agents were taking advantage of the FREE opportunity to post pictures for their listings in the MLS.
I was happy to see it was at least a little better when I looked again.
Of the 61 newest listings:
- 9 had 0 pictures, 14.8%
- 6 had 1 picture, 9.8%
- 11 had 2-8 pictures, 18%
- 14 had 9-11 pictures, 23%
- 21 had all 12 pictures, 34.4%
- 9 had virtual tours, 14.8%
Last time, just over 60% had fewer than 12 pictures. This time it is over 65% with less than 12 pictures. FMLS, one of the local listing services allows 12 pictures. There is really NO reason for fewer. Even with a "less than showcase" home, more pictures are generally good.
As with the last time, I didn't judge the pictures for quality. That is subjective... and I am trying to be objective.
Keep in mind that buyers WANT pictures. They want to see if the property is a fit for what they are looking for. Whether it is a million dollar showpiece or a $40k fixer-upper, they want to see an honest representation of the home. Even the virtual tours is something that a fixer-upper can benefit from. Buyers still want as much information as possible.
No surprises. I have been out with too many buyers that have been disappointed because the house we were standing in and the pictures weren't the same... It doesn't help... The "mystery" isn't alluring.
Rather, buyers want to walk into a home and feel like they have been there. It provides a connection. Real pictures CAN do that. A virtual tour with 100 pictures CAN do that. A video CAN do that. An interactive floor plan where the buyer can "move in" and re-arrange the furniture or pain the walls... CAN do that.
Here is the tough question... can another agent do that?
Unless otherwise noted, all content of this blog is the property of Lane Bailey, ©2012 Lane Bailey.
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