Nothing kills house-hunting excitement faster than a bad listing photo. Blurry images, cluttered rooms, questionable decor—buyers notice it all.
Some houses are gorgeous in person, but if the photos are a mess? Click. Goodbye. In a world where buyers swipe through listings like they’re on a dating app, bad photos equal a hard pass.
1. Blurry, Dark, or Low-Quality Photos
If it looks like it was taken with a potato, buyers assume the house isn’t much better. Listing photos need to be clear and bright, capturing every detail of the room. A dim, grainy image? That’s just a ticket to the next listing.
2. Doors Left Half-Open in Every Shot
Is it an artistic choice or is there something lurking behind that door? Either way, it’s unsettling. Open or closed, a door should never leave buyers guessing. A half-open door can make rooms feel unwelcoming and mysterious.
3. Too Many Taxidermy Mounts
Some buyers love a rustic vibe. Others don’t want to feel like they just walked into a hunting lodge crime scene. Too many animal heads can overwhelm a room and leave potential buyers rushing for the exit.
4. Random Pets in the Frame
A cat curled up on a windowsill? Cute. A snake tank in the corner? Not so much. Pets in listing photos can be distracting and may elicit allergies or fears. It’s best to keep furry friends out of sight for the photo session.
5. A Bathroom Mirror Selfie Starring the Realtor
We’re here for the house, not an awkward mid-smile reflection of the person taking the pics. A mirror selfie in a listing photo screams unprofessional and shifts focus away from the home’s features.
6. Unmade Beds and Messy Bedrooms
If you couldn’t be bothered to straighten the sheets, what else was neglected in the house? A tidy, inviting bedroom suggests a well-cared-for home. Clutter and chaos? Not the impression sellers should aim to leave.
7. Creepy Dolls or Oddly Placed Mannequins
Nothing says ‘Welcome home’ like a doll staring into your soul. Creepy dolls or mannequins can give off an unsettling vibe that risks turning potential buyers away. It’s important to keep decor neutral and inviting.
8. Dirty Dishes in the Sink
Buyers don’t want to see last night’s spaghetti plates sitting in the background. A clean kitchen suggests that the home is well-maintained. Dirty dishes? That’s a quick way to make buyers question the entire property’s upkeep.
9. A Sunset Filter That’s Trying Too Hard
If the sky looks like it belongs in a sci-fi movie, buyers assume the rest of the listing is just as fake. Over-the-top filters can make photos seem disingenuous and distract from the home’s true charm.
10. Cars Parked Front and Center
Is this a house listing or a used car ad? Vehicles should never be the focus in real estate photos. A car blocking the view of the home can make the property feel cluttered and unappealing.
11. Personalized Nameplates and Signs
While personal touches make a house a home, they can be a turn-off in listing photos. Buyers need to envision themselves living there. A nameplate or personalized sign only reminds them it’s someone else’s space.
12. Overstuffed Closets and Storage Spaces
Closet space is a big deal, and overstuffed storage screams ‘no room for your things here.’ Buyers want to see ample space, not a chaotic jumble of clothes and belongings. It’s a clear message of limited storage.
13. Excessive Family Photos on Display
Family photos make a house feel lived-in but can overwhelm buyers with the seller’s personal life. It’s important to depersonalize spaces to help buyers imagine their own lives unfolding there.
14. Visible Home Renovation Projects
Unfinished projects suggest a lack of commitment to property maintenance. Buyers might worry about the time and cost required to complete these tasks. A half-painted wall or exposed wires can be a dealbreaker.
15. Outdated Decor and Furnishings
While some buyers appreciate retro charm, outdated decor can make a home feel stuck in the past. Modern buyers often look for a more contemporary style, leaving old-fashioned rooms less appealing.
16. Cluttered Surfaces and Countertops
Cluttered countertops can make even spacious kitchens seem cramped. Buyers want to see ample preparation space, not a collection of personal items. Clear surfaces help convey a sense of organization and freedom.
17. Untrimmed Lawns and Overgrown Gardens
The exterior is the first thing buyers see, and an unkempt garden can set a negative tone. A well-maintained lawn suggests care and attention, while overgrowth signals neglect. First impressions begin at the curb.
18. Obvious Signs of Pets Like Scratches or Pet Beds
While many buyers love animals, visible signs of pets can be a downside. Scratches, odors, or pet beds may suggest potential damage or allergies. Buyers want a fresh start, not reminders of previous occupants’ pets.
19. Visible Personal Hygiene Items in Bathrooms
Bathrooms should feel like a clean slate, not a personal showcase. Personal hygiene items in photos can make buyers feel like they’re intruding. Keeping these items hidden helps maintain a neutral, inviting atmosphere.
20. Mismatched or Gaudy Color Schemes
A bold color scheme might reflect a seller’s personality but can be polarizing. Buyers need to envision their own style in a space, and mismatched colors can be off-putting. Neutral tones tend to appeal to a broader audience.
21. Exposed Wiring or Unfinished Electrical Work
Safety first! Exposed wiring in a listing photo can send buyers running. It signals potential hazards and necessary repairs, which may deter those looking for a move-in-ready home. Complete any electrical work before photographing.
22. Unappealing Carpet and Flooring Choices
Flooring can dramatically affect a home’s appeal. Unattractive carpets or outdated linoleum might make buyers hesitate. Today’s buyers often seek hardwood or modern alternatives, not reminders of bygone decor trends.
23. Awkwardly Staged Furniture Arrangements
Furniture layout can define a room’s feel. Awkward arrangements might make spaces seem smaller or less functional. Staging should highlight flow and livability, not leave buyers questioning how to use the space.
24. Visible Damage Like Cracks or Stains
Cracks and stains in photos suggest underlying issues. Buyers may fear structural problems or water damage, leading them to avoid pursuing the property. It’s crucial to address and repair visible damage before listing.
25. Poorly Lit Rooms and Dark Angles
Lighting can make or break a photo. Dark rooms feel unwelcoming and may hide key features. Bright, natural light enhances the space, making it feel open and inviting. Light up your spaces for a better buyer experience.
26. Unimpressive Views or Omitted Outdoor Spaces
Photos should showcase a property’s best angles, including outdoor spaces. If a listing hides or omits these, buyers might assume there’s nothing worth seeing. Highlight views and features to attract interest.
27. Seasonal Decorations Out of Season
Seasonal decor out of time can confuse buyers and detract from the home’s appeal. It can suggest neglect or that the property has been on the market for too long. Stick to timeless, neutral decor for listing photos.
28. Lack of Curb Appeal in Exterior Shots
The home’s exterior is its first impression, and a lack of curb appeal can discourage interest. Peeling paint and unruly landscaping suggest neglect. A tidy, inviting exterior helps draw buyers in for a closer look.