Pictures say a thousand words.

When consumers visit REALTOR.ca to find the ideal listing, they are first searching with criteria that are important to them. Once a visitor lands on a property, viewing the images is where much of their time is spent.

Tip No. 1

Here is a quick list of Do's for Listing Photos:

Take a photo from the curb: Curb appeal is always top of mind for potential buyers. It's also the first impression you'll make on a buyer. Make sure the lawn is cut, cars are moved and obstructions are removed from the shot.

Create an unforgettable welcome: Set the tone with an inviting entryway photo.

Capture the main selling points: Did the seller recently renovate the bathroom or kitchen?

Order your listing photos: Think of the slideshow on REALTOR.ca like a virtual tour of the home. Start with a shot from the curb, then transition to the entrance and start walking the client through the different rooms.

Tip No. 2

Listing Photo Don'ts:

Don't take photos of pets : Pets could lead some potential buyers to not even visit your listing.

Don't skip rooms : Skipping an area of the home will raise red flags. Buyers do not like surprises and it will come across like you're trying to hide something.

Don't forget to clean up : A potential buyer will picture themselves in the home. Clutter, burnt out lights, and a messy environment will resonate poorly with potential buyers.

Don't take unlit, dark photos : The more light the better, consider taking photos during the day with lots of natural light. If the room or picture is still too dark, then consider staging the home to add additional light.

Tip No. 3

Find a Photographer. The best place to start is Google. Search for local photographers, review their library of real estate photos and find out about key details such as type of equipment used and how you will receive the photos.

What to Expect from a Professional?

• Walk through and Advice - Professionals have a great eye for detail. Expect to do a walk through of the property and advice on how to enhance the sell-able features of the listing.
• Lighting Set Up - Photographers have a good eye for lighting, ask to maximize natural light, and some will even capture the outside of the house at night.
• Post Production - Did you miss something? Blemish in the photo? A great photographer can take care of that using up to date photo editing software

Make sure that you own the rights to the photos after they are taken, and avoid photographers with complicated licensing terms or print restrictions.

Tip No. 4

Take advantage of your board/association's MLS® System rules and upload the maximum allowable number of photos to illustrate all the key sections of the property, its amenities, as well as the surrounding area.

REALTOR.ca.ca does not limit the amount of photos you can upload. However, you should check with your board/association to find out if there is a limit on the amount of photos you can upload to your MLS® System.