Screen appeal is the new curb appeal. As you prepare to sell your home in Northeastern Wisconsin, screen appeal plays a pivotal role in making a strong first impression on potential buyers. Nearly all of your potential buyers will view your home online before deciding if they want to pursue more information, so making sure that your home appears as wonderful online as it does in person is absolutely essential.
In addition to working with a qualified local real estate expert in Northeastern Wisconsin, here are some things you can do to support the successful sale of your home by optimizing your screen appeal.
What is screen appeal?
Screen appeal is the way your home comes across over the screen of your potential buyer’s phone or computer. Much like curb appeal is the first impression a buyer gets when they arrive at your home for an open house or drive by and see the for sale sign, screen appeal is the digital first impression.
In today’s digital age, many buyers begin their home search online. Eye-catching photos of your home can significantly enhance your listing’s online presence. Listings with strong screen appeal photos tend to receive more clicks and generate greater interest.
Positive screen appeal generates buzz not only among potential buyers but also among real estate agents, friends, and neighbors. Word of mouth can lead to more referrals and increase the chances of finding the right buyer sooner, and this is especially effective when there is an attractive online listing to share.
Why do first impressions count?
The old saying “you never get a second chance to make a first impression” holds particularly true in the real estate market. As potential buyers view the online listing for your property, their initial impression of your home sets the tone for their overall perception. A well-maintained and visually appealing home can pique their interest and prompt them to explore further, while a poor impression from photos can leave many of your ideal buyers uninterested. Even if your home is in excellent condition and is a great buy, poor screen appeal may not convey this to your buyers.
Investing in screen appeal doesn’t have to be exorbitant, but it can yield a high return on investment. Simple improvements such as fresh paint, landscaping, and cleaning can go a long way in enhancing your home’s exterior appeal.
Professional Photography
Professional photography is worth the investment because great screen appeal is one of the most important features in selling a home in today’s market. While it will cost upfront, the ROI on the expense is significant. Follow your real estate agent’s lead and consider offering a virtual tour, drone footage, or other photography options to fully display the appeal of your property.
Lighting and Staging
Good lighting highlights your home’s best features while staging helps showcase its potential. Both work together to enhance the visual appeal of your property, making it more attractive to buyers browsing through listings or attending showings. By making sure there is plenty of natural light and investing in professional staging, you can make your photos shine.
Decluttering
Have you ever heard that the camera adds ten pounds? There is a similar phenomenon that happens when a messy or cluttered space is photographed. If your home is cluttered, you will likely find that it looks even more so in photos.
Instead, take the time to declutter before photos for your online listing are taken. You can begin the packing process, or ruthlessly purge and dispose of or donate things you no longer need. Common sources of clutter to address include:
- Shoes, bags, and coats near an entrance
- Knick-knacks and decor on shelves
- Papers, including mail, children’s artwork, to-do lists, and miscellaneous paperwork
- Pet items
- Children’s toys
- Hobby supplies
- Kitchen appliances and other items stored on the counters
To learn more about helping your home put its best foot forward before selling, contact these local experts for help.
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