29 September 2023

FROM MEH TO MUST-SEE: CHOOSING A HERO SHOT FOR A FIXER-UPPER LISTING

The goal of any agent or photographer is to showcase a property in its best light, highlighting all its desirable and unique qualities. However, certain homes may be seen as a fixer-upper - needing renovation or improvement. This could be for a multitude of reasons, such as a lack of curb appeal, outdated architecture, or unfinished renovations. However, it’s important to note that what makes a property a fixer-upper for one person may not be a concern for another. 

When listing any property, it’s important to strategize how you will capture buyer attention. One effective approach to drawing interest is by selecting the most appealing image as the centerpiece of your marketing materials, commonly referred to as the hero shot.   

Choosing a hero shot for a fixer-upper listing can come with challenges, but it’s important to present the property in the best possible light while also maintaining transparency.  

In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten things to consider when choosing a hero shot for a fixer-upper listing.  

1. Identify the Unique Selling Points 

Even if the property has drawbacks, there may still be some attractive aspects or unique selling points worth highlighting. It could be a spacious backyard, a recently renovated bathroom, or a convenient location. Identify these features and focus on highlighting them in the hero shot. 

2. Don’t Underestimate the Power of the Golden Hour 

Our Day to Dusk edit isn’t commonly referred to as “the hero shot edit” for nothing! There is something about a romantic sunset sky that adds the wow factor to a listing, even if the property itself isn't necessarily wow-worthy.

3. Showcase Potential 

Consider emphasizing the property's potential rather than its current state. With the magic of Virtual Renovation, you can reimagine a space and provide inspiration for what it could look like with a bit of TLC. 

4. Optimize Composition and Framing 

Pay attention to the composition and framing of the shot. Choose an angle that minimizes or avoids emphasizing the less desirable aspects of the property. Frame the shot to draw attention to the focal point or the best features of the space.

5. Set The Stage For Success 

Consider using Virtual Staging in the hero shot to present the property in a more appealing and aspirational way. This can help potential buyers envision the possibilities and see beyond any existing drawbacks.  

Insider tip: check out this blog to ensure you are using Virtual Staging ethically when marketing real estate. 

6. Be Honest and Transparent 

It's important to maintain honesty and transparency in your listing. While you want to highlight the property's positive aspects, avoid misleading or exaggerating its features. Provide accurate and clear descriptions to complement the hero shot and set realistic expectations for potential buyers.

7. Enhance the Images 

A well-edited image goes a long way towards presenting the property in its best light, without misrepresenting it. Enhanced lighting can create a bright and inviting atmosphere, and a well-exposed photo showcases the colors and textures in an appealing manner. Try our best-selling edit, Image Enhancement, to see your photos transform.

8. Consider Alternative Angles or Perspectives 

If the façade of the property is not particularly appealing, explore alternative angles or perspectives that showcase the property's better side. This could be a unique architectural feature, a charming backyard, or an interior space that stands out. 

9. Highlight the Neighborhood or Location 

Conventional wisdom suggests that buying the worst house on the best street is the way to go. If the property is in a desirable location or has excellent proximity to amenities, consider showcasing the neighborhood itself in the hero shot.  

Insider tip: an aerial shot showing a bird's eye view of the property with notable nearby attractions clearly displayed could be a winner! 

10. Provide Comprehensive Imagery 

While selecting a hero shot is important, make sure to include additional photos that provide a comprehensive view of the property so potential buyers can get a well-rounded understanding of the space.  

No Smoke and Mirrors 

As always with property listings, transparency and honesty are crucial when marketing a fixer-upper property. Your goal should be to focus on presenting the property in its best possible light while providing accurate information. By highlighting its unique selling points, showcasing its potential, and enhancing your photos with professional editing, you can create a hero shot that maximizes any property's appeal.  

New to BoxBrownie.com? Sign up now to receive 3 Image Enhancement edits, 1 Day to Dusk edit, and 10 AI-written listing descriptions, all for free! No credit card is required. 

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