5 Tips For Photographing Rental Properties
Photographing rental properties requires a unique approach when compared to classic real estate listings. While selling a home often revolves around showcasing the potential for a buyer to make it their own, rental property photography focuses on illustrating immediate livability and functionality.
In this article I’ll share five essential tips for capturing rental properties in a way that appeals to potential renters.
Table of Contents
1. Highlighting Key Appliances and Features
One of the first things potential renters look for in a property is the availability and condition of essential appliances. Unlike in home sales, where appliances might not always be included, rental properties are often expected to come fully equipped.
Kitchen Appliances: Ensure to capture clean and well-maintained refrigerators, stoves, and dishwashers. If the rental property boasts high-end or recently updated appliances, make these a focal point in your kitchen shots. The more modern and efficient these essentials appear, the more appealing the property will be.
Laundry Facilities: In-unit washers and dryers are significant selling points. Take clear photos showing these appliances in a clean, well-lit space. If the laundry area is small or located in a less attractive part of the property, use angles and lighting to make the space look as inviting as possible.
Any Other Small Appliances: Make sure to highlight any other appliances that are included with the rental unit. With classic MLS real estate photography we overlook smaller appliances to show off the space, but a renter will want to see every appliance that is included.
2. Showcasing Shared Common Spaces
Many rental properties, especially in larger apartment complexes, come with shared amenities that can be a major draw for potential tenants. These could include fitness centers, lounges, pools, or outdoor areas.
Capture the Ambiance: Your photos should convey the atmosphere of these spaces. For instance, a well-lit, clean, and spacious gym area can be a significant attraction for health-conscious renters.
Emphasize Space and Utility: Show how these areas can be used. A lounge with comfortable seating and a coffee table set for a meeting can illustrate the space’s practicality for social gatherings or work.
Outdoor Spaces: If there is a shared outdoor space make sure the viewer understands that they have full access to the space. Many times it’s difficult to tell if an outdoor space is available for everyone to use. You can include signage in your photo to help drive the point home.
3. Photographing Parking and Transportation Options
For many renters, parking availability is a critical consideration, especially in urban areas. Properly showcasing parking facilities can significantly enhance the rental property’s appeal.
Clarity and Accessibility: Ensure your photos clearly depict where tenants can park and the ease of access from parking to living spaces. If the property offers covered parking, reserved spots, or a secure garage, highlight these features.
Nearby Transportation: If the property is in a location with easy access to public transportation, consider including photos of the nearby bus stops, subway entrances, or bike-sharing stations. This adds immense value for renters who rely on public transport.
4. Focusing on Bedrooms and Living Spaces
While it’s essential to capture the entire property, pay special attention to bedrooms and living spaces. These are areas where potential renters often visualize themselves and their belongings.
If a possible renter is going to share the apartment with a roommate, the bedroom area is going to be their one area of privacy, making it an extremely important selling feature.
Neutral Decor: Aim for a clean, neutral look. Overly personalized decor can make it hard for viewers to imagine themselves in the space. If the property is furnished, ensure the style is modern and neutral.
Space and Light: Use natural light as much as possible to make these areas look bright and welcoming. If the rooms are smaller, use wide-angle lenses to capture as much of the space as you can, but avoid extreme angles that can distort the room’s proportions.
5. Detailing Bathrooms and Functional Areas
Bathrooms, though not the most glamorous part of home photography, are essential in rental properties. Potential renters will be looking for clean, well-maintained, and functional bathrooms.
Spotless and Bright: Make sure the bathroom is immaculate before photographing. Bright, well-lit images can make even small bathrooms look more appealing.
Functional Highlights: If there are features like updated fixtures, good storage space, or a particularly spacious shower or tub, make sure these are clearly visible in your photos.
Additional Resources
If you’re just getting started in real estate photography, check out our Beginners Guide. It’s full of helpful articles and tips that will guide you in the right direction as you begin your real estate photography journey.
You can check out our Gear section as well to see reviews and recommendations on the latest real estate photography gear.
If you’re more interested in other resources that can help your real estate photography business, check out our Business Resources page.
