How Pro Photos & Staging Help Your Home Make a Great First Impression

By Tammy Jerome

Tammy Jerome is an award-winning broker and host of “Selling Los Angeles” on the acclaimed American Dream TV show, with over two decades of experience and more than 1,500 successful transactions.

In today’s “digital-first” real estate market, buyers decide they do not like your home before they ever step inside.

Most buyers begin their search online, scrolling through hundreds of listings in just minutes. If your home does not grab attention right away, it often gets passed over without a second thought.​

Professional photography and staging are no longer just nice extras. Data shows that over 90% of homebuyers begin their search online, making your listing stand out from the rest.

Why professional photography matters so much. According to the National Association of Realtors, listings with professional photos sell 32% faster than those with amateur photos, command up to 17% higher prices, and receive more inquiries and showings, increasing your chances of competitive offers.​

Poor-quality images can leave buyers scrolling past your listing without a second chance. Conversely, crisp, well-lit images that highlight your home’s best features invite buyers in, even before they set foot inside.

What’s the impact of professional staging? A professionally staged home helps buyers picture themselves living there. It shows how spaces function, draws attention to architectural details, and creates a sense of flow. Neutral staging removes personal distractions so buyers can imagine their own style in the space.

In markets like Greater Los Angeles, staging can be the difference between multiple offers and weeks of silence. I have seen staged homes receive three to five times more showings and sell above asking price, while poorly presented homes sit longer or require price reductions.

So, how do you maximize your listing? Start with a photographer who understands real estate. Lighting, angles, and composition matter. Next, invest in staging, even if it is partial staging for key rooms like the living area, kitchen, and primary bedroom. Finally, declutter before photos are taken. Less visual noise helps buyers focus on the home itself.

In the digital age, professional photography and staging are critical components of a successful real estate strategy.

If you’re ready to make your home stand out, let’s connect. Feel free to call me at (818) 903-5854 or tammyjerome@gmail.com. Together, we’ll craft a strategy that not only attracts attention but closes the deal.