Make your property POP!
With most buyers starting their search for a new home online, it’s crucial to ensure that your property grabs attention and leaves a lasting impression. Careful photo curation, a well-thought-out property description, and providing as much detail as possible can help ensure your listing comes out on top.Having a good listing is important for satiating the buyer’s interest and vital for the listing’s visibility. According to Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, most (if not all) property portals use a listing score mechanism to help rank which listings appear first in search results.
“Our own website, remax.co.za, which was recently updated and relaunched in December 2024, also uses a listing score to help rank listings. Essentially, the listing score is an incentive for sellers to provide as much information as possible so that the listing can rank higher. The scoring system works off things like a good number of high-quality images, the listing address of the property, and a thorough property description,” Goslett explains.
To help sellers ensure their property listing stands out, RE/MAX of Southern Africa shares their top three tips.
High-quality photography
First impressions matter, and the photos of your property are the first thing potential buyers see. Invest in professional photography to showcase your property’s best features. Ensure that images are well-lit, high-resolution, and taken from flattering angles. Most importantly, before the photographer arrives, declutter, clean, and arrange furniture to highlight the home’s layout and flow. Consider hiring a professional stager to create an appealing, move-in-ready look.
Provide accurate and complete information
Buyers eliminate options based on the listing itself. If the information they want is not included, then they will simply keep scrolling. Be sure to include all relevant details such as square meterage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, property taxes, and any levies or homeowners association fees. Clear and complete information helps buyers decide whether they want to take the next step and view the home in person. A detailed and engaging description that highlights the property’s key features and benefits will also prove helpful in this regard.
Virtual tours and videos
Incorporate virtual tours or walkthrough videos to give buyers a comprehensive view of the property. Interactive and video content allows potential buyers to explore the space from the comfort of their homes, increasing engagement and interest. This is especially important with the rising trend for cross-country or foreign buyers who purchase properties without viewing it in person.
Work with an experienced real estate agent
Ultimately, if you partner with a knowledgeable real estate agent, you won’t have to worry about the quality of your listing. They understand market trends, know how to price the property competitively and have marketing strategies to maximise exposure on listing portals.
“A skilled agent will manage every aspect of the listing process—from professional photography and compelling descriptions to effective marketing and price negotiations. Their expertise ensures your property gets maximum exposure and attracts the right buyers, allowing you to focus on your next move with peace of mind,” Goslett concludes.