10 tips to supercharge your real estate listings (plus a game-changing school data tool)

In today's competitive market, your property listings need to stand out from the crowd. With so many potential buyers looking at homes online, your property listings need to make a great first impression to capture attention and generate leads. The right combination of presentation, information, and technology can make all the difference in attracting serious buyers and closing deals faster. We've got some pro tips to help you do just that, plus a secret weapon that'll take your listings to the next level. Let's dive in!

1. Use high-quality photos

First impressions matter — and when buyers search online, they go straight to the photos first. Invest in professional photography to get the lighting, the mood, and the angles just right. A home filled with natural light is a dream come true for many buyers, but it can be a challenge to capture that light in photos. A skilled photographer and/or videographer can help buyers see the sunlight without dimming the rest of the room. 
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Key point: Bright, clear, attractive photos can make or break a listing.

2. Virtual tours are here to stay

The pandemic changed the game for everyone — especially home buyers. Not only do they want a dream kitchen and updated bathrooms, but now people want to see the layout to understand how a home functions for daily work and home life. When you offer 3D tours or video walkthroughs, you give buyers a feel for the space without leaving their couch. Then, when they come to see the home in person, you know they’re already excited about the home’s possibilities and flow.
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Key point: Seeing a home’s layout helps buyers envision their life there.

3. Write compelling descriptions

Don't just list features — tell a story! French doors from the kitchen open onto a covered patio allowing for indoor-outdoor entertaining year-round. South-facing windows welcome filtered afternoon light that brightens the third bedroom for after school play, an inspiring artist’s studio, or a productive home office. Help potential buyers envision themselves living in the home. Be specific, authentic, and highlight unique selling points.

Key point: Use the write-up to inspire buyers to think about their best life.

4. Provide complete and accurate information

Include all essential details and be upfront about potential drawbacks, like HOA fees or needed repairs. If the home doesn’t have laundry, but there’s a space in a closet or the garage where it could fit, be transparent and also share the possibilities. This builds trust and helps buyers make informed decisions.

Key point: Be honest and upfront about potential drawbacks.

5. Highlight energy efficiency

Green is in! Showcase any energy-saving features or eco-friendly upgrades. From solar panels to drought-resistant landscaping to electric car chargers, sometimes these features that don’t make the initial wishlist can make all the difference when deciding whether or not to write an offer. 

Key point: Eco-friendly features are good for the planet and the wallet.

6. Showcase the neighborhood

Remember, you're not just selling a house — you're selling a lifestyle. Is this a great place to walk your dog or ride your bike? Maybe groceries are just five minutes away or there’s a neighborhood block party each year creating community. Highlight local amenities, parks, shopping, and restaurants so people can get a feel for the neighborhood perks.

Key point: Location, location, location.

7. Be mobile-friendly

Most buyers start their search on mobile devices. And if they like it, they’ll text it to their partner, family, or friends to check out. So to make the best impression possible, make sure your listings look great on a smartphone.

Key point: Make sure your listing shines on mobile.

8. Use social media wisely

Instagram, Facebook, even TikTok — this is where your buyers are hanging out, so use these platforms to give your listings extra exposure. Just remember to follow your local MLS rules!

Key point: Meet buyers where they are — on social media.

9. Include a clear call to action (CTA)

Make sure your call to action is clear and easy to find, whether it’s scheduling a tour, contacting you, or filling out a form. A strong CTA boosts your chances of converting interest into action.

Key point: Make it clear and easy for buyers to take the next step.

10. Leverage school data with GreatSchools.org’s NearbySchools™ API

Here's where we drop that secret weapon we mentioned earlier. For many buyers, especially families, school quality is a make-or-break factor. Families like to know the schools in their area are serving students. Even buyers who don’t have school-age children know that the resale value of a home is likely to be higher if it's near desirable schools. This is where our NearbySchools™ API comes in.