Online Curb Appeal

First impressions are everything in real estate, which is why curb appeal is so important - there is even a whole show on HGTV about it!

But today most buyers first impression of your home happens online, and the "online curb appeal" of your listing can determine buyer's interest in the first 3 seconds.

"Your online impact is equal to your curb appeal impact... In both instances, the way you package the product to entice a potential buyer is key," said Aimee Flynn, graphic design and interior design department instructor at the Art Institute of Raleigh-Durham, N.C. in a recent article in the Salinas Californian

To up your online curb appeal you need to pay attention to a few details:

1. Photos are critical. The quality and professional feel of your photos largely determine how many people will even look at your listing. Images should cover the unique selling points of your home: Yard, remodels, wood floors, storage - all in a bright, well lit setting.
   
   
2. Describe why your home is unique. What makes this house special, who would it perfect for? No home appeals to everyone, so take the time to think who your home is right for, and then make sure your description is written for them.
   
   "Keep in mind that you're selling a dream if someone can imagine his or her life unfolding in the images and descriptive text, you are one step closer to landing a successful showing," Flynn said.
   
   
3. Know your neighborhood! Your description should sell your neighborhood as well as your home: location to school, parks, highway access, everything a buyer needs to know to choose your location over other homes listed.
   
   
4. Think about your price based on searching. Most people search by lowest price first and put on a price cap at even numbers like $350,000 or $400,000. By pricing at $349,000 you'll show up more often.

Finally don't be afraid to edit and change your listing. Ask your friends and professional contacts to give you honest feedback and update your listing. Consider hiring a professional to photograph your home.

Check out the competition. Spend a few minutes searching for homes in your area and see hour your images and description stacks up. Buyers are comparing your listing to the others they see online, make sure yours is the most exciting and most direct.

All this can make your home listing pop off the page and draw buyers interest from the beginning.