Do Professional Listing Photos Really Sell Homes Faster? A Look at the Data
- Charles Greggory
- Apr 7
- 4 min read
The Short Answer is, yes.
In the world of real estate, first impressions are everything. With 97% of homebuyers starting their search online, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the quality of a home’s listing photos has become a make-or-break factor. But how much of a difference do professional images actually make? Is the investment truly worth it? Let's look beyond instinct and marketing speak to examine the data.
The Psychology of Visual Appeal
Before diving into the numbers, it’s important to understand the psychology at play. Numerous studies in cognitive psychology confirm that the human brain processes images 60,000 times faster than text. Online homebuyers form an opinion within the first 7 to 10 seconds of viewing a listing—often before reading the description.
In a crowded marketplace, a grainy smartphone photo simply doesn’t hold up against professionally staged and edited visuals. Clean composition, accurate lighting, and thoughtful framing all help potential buyers imagine themselves in the space. That connection is crucial.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Several industry studies offer compelling evidence that professional photography directly influences how quickly a home sells—and often at a higher price.
1. Homes with High-Quality Photography Sell 32% Faster
According to a study by VHT Studios, listings with professional photography spend an average of 32% less time on the market compared to homes with standard photos. For sellers and agents alike, that reduced market time can mean less stress, fewer price reductions, and a smoother transaction overall.
2. Professional Photos Can Increase Sale Price by $3,000 - $11,000
A 2020 Redfin analysis showed that homes priced between $200,000 and $1 million that featured high-quality photography sold for $3,000 to $11,000 more than similar homes without professional images. While the increase is partly due to attracting more buyers, the perception of value plays a major role.
3. Listings with Professional Photos Receive 118% More Online Views
IMOTO, a leading real estate photography service, reported that listings with professional images garner 118% more views than those with non-professional photography. More eyes mean more opportunities—for showings, offers, and competition.
4. Homes with Fewer Days on Market Typically Close Closer to Asking Price
A NAR study found that homes which sell quickly often close at a price closer to or above asking. Time on market is directly correlated with buyer perception of value. The longer a home lingers, the more likely buyers are to suspect flaws or expect price reductions.
Professional Photography: What It Includes
A professional real estate photography package typically includes:
HDR Imaging: Balanced light exposure across windows, interiors, and shadows.
Wide-Angle Shots: Maximizes room size and layout visibility.
Floor Plan Included: The top feature behind quality pictures buyers say is most instrumental in them choosing to view a house. Some photographers, like Benaiah Studios, include a floor plan with every listing.
Twilight Photography: Enhances curb appeal for luxury listings and helps boost listing traffic
Aerial Drone Shots: Showcases property acreage or surrounding neighborhoods.
Virtual Staging: Adds tasteful furniture to vacant spaces.
Each of these elements increases the listing's appeal and helps paint a full picture of the property’s potential.
Return on Investment: The Math Works
Consider this: a professional photo session might cost anywhere between $100 and $500*, depending on the market and package. If the result is even a $3,000 increase in sale price (as Redfin data suggests), that’s a return of 6x to 30x the initial investment.
And let’s not forget the time factor or your own brand image. A faster sale reduces the costs of holding the property—utilities, mortgage payments, insurance, and opportunity cost of the next move.
Why This Matters More in 2025
Post-pandemic, buyer behavior has shifted, seemingly permanently. Virtual open houses, 3D walkthroughs, and listing videos are now standard expectations. Professional imagery is no longer a "nice-to-have"; it's a non-negotiable.
In high-inventory markets, professional media gives agents and sellers a competitive edge. In low-inventory markets, it maximizes visibility and leverage. Either way, cutting corners on listing visuals is one of the most expensive mistakes a seller can make.
Benaiah Studios: Professional Listing Photos and then some
At Benaiah Studios, we understand the power of storytelling—even when it comes to square footage and staging. Our real estate media packages are crafted to enhance not just the appearance of a home, but its entire narrative. We don’t just photograph a house; we frame its character using every tool available to us.
Whether you're a top-producing Realtor or a first-time seller, quality imagery is your most persuasive marketing tool. And in a market where milliseconds matter, professional photos don’t just look better. They perform better.
Final Thoughts
So, do professional listing photos really sell homes faster? The data speaks for itself. Not only do they reduce time on market and increase selling price, they also serve as the foundation for modern, competitive real estate marketing. In a digital-first housing economy, every listing is judged at a glance. Make yours unforgettable.
