I’ve had the pleasure of doing several photoshoots with Leigh Tracey-Gaynair of HomeSmart. We also live in the same Highland Neighborhood and see each other regularly at the local neighborhood association’s monthly meetings. I put a series of questions to Leigh recently about her experience in the world of real estate:
1. What initially drew you to working with older, stately homes, and what do you find most rewarding about helping clients buy or sell these unique properties?
You know, I fell in love with vintage homes during my own house-hunting journey in Salem. There’s something magical about stepping into a 1920s Craftsman or a cozy Tudor Cottage and feeling the stories within those walls. What drives me now is matching clients with these architectural treasures and seeing their faces light up when they discover original wood moldings or a perfectly preserved butler’s pantry. It’s about protecting and enhancing pieces of Salem’s history while helping families create their own legacies.
2. In your experience, what are some of the most appealing features of older homes in Salem that tend to attract buyers? Are there specific architectural details or characteristics that resonate with clients?
Salem’s vintage homes, particularly in the Grant-Highland and Gaiety Hill-Bush’s Pasture Park neighborhoods, offer details you simply can’t find in new construction. Our buyers are consistently drawn to the craftsmanship – old-growth timber used in construction, hand-carved balusters, leaded glass windows, and those coveted archways. The 1920s Craftsman bungalows in the Court-Chemeketa Historic District are particularly sought after for their built-in cabinetry and signature front porches. Many also feature original hardwood floors, which were often milled right here in the Willamette Valley.
3. Have you noticed any recent trends in Salem’s real estate market, particularly regarding the demand for older homes? How do you think the market for these properties has evolved?
The market for vintage homes in Salem has seen interesting shifts in recent years. While overall inventory remains tight, we’re seeing strong interest from buyers moving down from the Portland area who are drawn to Salem’s more affordable properties. These buyers often appreciate that they can get a vintage property here for a fraction of what it would cost in Portland’s historic districts. The pandemic actually increased interest in these homes, as people wanted more space and separate home offices – features that many older homes naturally provide. There is always a market for vintage homes from the early 1900’s and Mid-Century Modern to 70’s and 80’s contemporary styles. People are drawn to their unique features and become stewards of these properties. It is truly romantic and rewarding.
Here are a few images from a shoot we did in South Salem off Croisan Creek Road earlier this year:
4. What advice would you give buyers considering purchasing an older home in Salem? Are there any unique considerations they should keep in mind?
For buyers interested in vintage properties, I always emphasize the importance of working with inspectors who specialize in older homes. It’s crucial to understand what you’re getting into – these homes often need specialized maintenance and sometimes updating of electrical or plumbing systems. I recommend budgeting for both immediate and long-term maintenance. Also, familiarize yourself with Salem’s historic district guidelines if you’re buying in one of our historic neighborhoods. While these rules protect the character of our historic areas, they can affect what modifications you can make to the property. Choosing a realtor familiar with the quirks and concerns of a vintage home is paramount in having a good experience and choosing the right property.
5. In your view, what makes Salem’s real estate market distinct from other areas in Oregon? How does the city’s character or community play into the appeal of buying an older home here?
What makes Salem unique is our remarkable preservation of entire historic neighborhoods. Unlike some cities where historic homes stand isolated among newer development, Salem has intact historic districts that maintain their original character. The Bush’s Pasture Park area, for instance, offers a complete snapshot of early 20th century architectural styles. We also have several pockets of stunning Mid-Century Modern homes in west and southeast Salem or south Salem like the highly desirable Candelaria neighborhood. Additionally, we have several designated Heritage Neighborhoods featuring vintage homes with charming character. The proximity to state government offices in these “close-in” neighborhoods means we have a stable employment base, which helps maintain property values. Plus, our location in the heart of the Willamette Valley means homeowners can enjoy both small-town charm and easy access to Portland or the coast.
I tell my clients that owning a vintage home in Salem isn’t just buying a property or being its steward – it’s becoming part of a community that values architectural heritage and character. These homes supply the owner with a lifestyle along with a beautiful place to live. Although some may require more commitment than newer properties, the rewards of owning a piece of Salem’s history are truly special.
Virtual twilight photography has become an increasingly popular tool for real estate agents looking to add a touch of magic to their listings. With virtual twilight, a property’s exterior photos are digitally transformed to appear as if taken at dusk, creating a warm, inviting glow. This technique enhances the aesthetic appeal and helps properties stand out in a competitive market.
Why Choose Virtual Twilight for Your Listings?
The primary benefit of virtual twilight photography is the dramatic effect it adds. A property with illuminated windows and subtle exterior lighting against a sunset sky is instantly eye-catching. The soft hues of dusk bring out textures, landscaping, and architectural details that might be less noticeable in standard daylight photos. This is particularly advantageous for properties with unique exterior features, like custom lighting, beautiful landscaping, or pools.
Using virtual twilight is also a practical choice. Unlike traditional twilight photography, which relies on timing and specific conditions, virtual twilight can be applied to existing daytime photos, saving time, money, and the unpredictability of weather.
Which Properties Benefit Most from Virtual Twilight?
While almost any property can benefit from twilight photos, they’re especially useful for listings emphasizing outdoor amenities. Luxury homes with pools, spacious patios, and fire pits are excellent candidates, as twilight enhances the allure of these features. Likewise, homes with extensive landscaping, outdoor lighting, or scenic views can benefit greatly. Smaller homes gain charm with a twilight transformation, which appears cozy and welcoming.
Virtual twilight photography is particularly compelling for listings where agents want to appeal to a buyer’s emotional connection to the home. Dusk photos convey warmth and comfort, making it easier for potential buyers to envision themselves relaxing after a day’s work, surrounded by the ambiance of their new home.
How Agents Use Virtual Twilight to Maximize Appeal
To make the most of virtual twilight photography, agents often use it as the primary photo in online listings, attracting attention from buyers scrolling through property sites. Additionally, twilight photos work well for social media posts, postcards, and other marketing materials. A few strategically placed twilight images among standard photos can enhance the storytelling of a listing, giving buyers a fuller view of the home’s charm.
Virtual twilight is a valuable addition to any listing that seeks to make a strong first impression. It draws in potential buyers with its promise of warmth and elegance.
Real estate photography is more than just taking pictures; it’s a meticulous process that transforms a space into an inviting visual story. Here’s a deeper dive into the typical workflow of a real estate photographer, including an increasingly important step: the use of AI in photo editing.
1. Staging and Composing the Scene
Before the camera is even turned on, the photographer takes time to stage the property. This might involve rearranging furniture or decor to capture the essence and potential of each space, ensuring the photographs will appeal to prospective buyers.
2. Tripod Use for Consistent Quality
A tripod is a real estate photographer’s best friend. It ensures stability, resulting in sharper images. It also helps maintain consistency in framing and perspective across different shots, an essential factor for a cohesive visual portfolio of the property.
3. Bracketing Shots for Dynamic Range
Photographers often use bracketing, taking several shots of the same scene at different exposure levels (usually three to five). This approach captures details in the brightest highlights and darkest shadows, which is crucial for areas with varying light conditions.
4. HDR Processing for Balanced Images
These bracketed shots are blended through HDR (High Dynamic Range) processing. This method merges the best parts of each exposure, creating a single image that offers a balanced view similar to what the human eye perceives.
5. Lighting and Color Adjustments
Post-HDR processing, the photographer fine-tunes lighting, color balance, and contrast to make the images vibrant and welcoming. This step can dramatically enhance the visual appeal of your listing.
6. Executing Window Pulls
Window pulls are a technique to balance the bright exterior seen through windows with the room’s interior. This ensures that both the indoor space and the external view are accurately and attractively represented.
7. Utilizing AI in Post-Processing
A growing trend in real estate photography is using AI tools in editing software like Photoshop. These AI features can remove unwanted objects (like trash cans, cars, and garden hoses), replace bland skies with more dynamic ones, or even extend the sides of images if necessary. This step ensures the final image is visually appealing and portrays the property in the best possible light.
8. Final Edits and Touch-Ups
The finishing touches involve removing minor imperfections, straightening lines, and ensuring the photos are a true representation of the property. The photographer aims to create a realistic yet aesthetically pleasing image that captures the viewer’s attention.
Conclusion
Understanding the intricate process behind real estate photography, including the advanced use of AI in editing, can deepen your appreciation for this art form. Each step, from setting up with a tripod to sophisticated AI enhancements, is geared towards creating images that do more than just showcase a property—they tell its story. As a real estate agent, recognizing the value and skill involved in this process can help you collaborate more effectively with photographers, ensuring your listings are visually compelling and stand out in the market.
In the dynamic world of real estate, captivating aerial imagery has become a cornerstone for showcasing properties. Integrating drone photography into your marketing strategy as a real estate agent can significantly elevate your listings, offering potential buyers a unique perspective and a comprehensive view of the property. However, the key to reaping the benefits of drone imagery lies in choosing the right drone pilot.
Here’s a guide to help you vet potential drone pilots effectively.
1. Certification and Compliance
Start by ensuring the drone pilot is FAA-certified. In the U.S., commercial drone pilots must have a Remote Pilot Certificate under the FAA’s Part 107 regulation. This certification is not just a formality; it demonstrates the pilot’s understanding of airspace regulations, safety practices, and operational requirements. Verify their certification and inquire about their understanding of local airspace restrictions, especially in areas with complex regulations like the Willamette Valley, Oregon, known for its proximity to multiple airports.
2. Portfolio and Experience
Experience matters. Review the pilot’s portfolio to assess their expertise in real estate photography. Look for variety in their work – different property types, landscapes, and architectural styles. Please pay attention to how well they capture the essence of each property and the surrounding area. An experienced drone pilot should provide a compelling narrative of the property, showcasing its best features from angles that ground-level photography can’t achieve.
Aerial photos show a dramatic view of the property in context with its surroundings.
3. Equipment and Capabilities
The quality of the drone and camera significantly affects the final output. Inquire about the type of drone and camera the pilot uses. Look for high-resolution cameras capable of capturing 4K video and high-quality stills. Additionally, consider their ability to shoot in various lighting conditions crucial for capturing properties at their most appealing times, like the golden hour.
4. Insurance and Liability
Ensure the drone pilot has liability insurance specifically for drone operations. This is crucial to protect yourself and the property owner from potential damages or accidents during the shoot. A professional drone operator should have no issue providing proof of insurance.
5. Communication and Professionalism
Effective communication is critical. The pilot should be able to understand your specific needs and translate them into stunning visuals. Their professionalism extends beyond flying skills; it includes punctuality, responsiveness, and the ability to work under varying conditions.
6. Creativity and Customization
Each property is unique, and the drone footage should reflect this. A skilled drone pilot can offer creative suggestions and customize their approach to highlight the unique features of each property. Whether capturing the expanse of a rural property in the Willamette Valley or the intricate details of an urban dwelling, their creativity can make a significant difference.
7. Testimonials and References
Lastly, don’t hesitate to ask for references or testimonials from previous clients, especially other real estate agents. Hearing about others’ experiences can provide insights into the pilot’s reliability and quality of work.
Finally…
In conclusion, the right drone pilot can transform your real estate listings, offering breathtaking views that captivate potential buyers. Focusing on these best practices ensures that your aerial imagery meets and exceeds expectations, setting your properties apart in a competitive market.
Choosing the right real estate photographer is crucial in showcasing properties effectively. Often, real estate agents miss asking some key questions that can greatly impact the quality and effectiveness of the photographs. Here are the top five questions that are often overlooked but essential when hiring a new real estate photographer.
1. What is Your Post-Processing Workflow?
While many agents inquire about the shooting process, they often overlook the equally important post-processing phase. Ask about the photographer’s editing process, including their approach to color correction, exposure adjustments, and handling features like window views and shadows. Understanding their post-processing techniques will give you insight into the final look of your property images.
2. Can You Provide Examples of Different Lighting Conditions?
Photographers usually have a portfolio, but it might not cover a wide range of lighting scenarios. Ask for examples of their work in various lighting conditions, such as low light, bright sunlight, and mixed lighting. This will give you a better understanding of how they handle challenging light situations and maintain consistency in image quality.
3. How Do You Handle Tight Spaces or Unique Architectural Features?
Real estate encompasses a variety of properties, from compact apartments to large estates with unique architectural elements. It’s important to know how a photographer approaches such diverse spaces. Ask how they maximize small areas or capture the essence of unique architectural features. Their approach can significantly influence the appeal of your listings.
4. What is Your Turnaround Time?
Timing is crucial in real estate. While agents often ask about availability, they sometimes forget to discuss turnaround time. Knowing how quickly you can expect to receive the edited photos helps in planning listings and marketing strategies. It’s also worth discussing the process for rush jobs or tight deadlines.
5. How Do You Ensure Property Safety During a Shoot?
This question is especially pertinent now. Inquire about the photographer’s measures to ensure property safety, particularly in the context of ongoing health concerns. Understanding their approach to safety and respect for the property can be crucial for homeowner peace of mind.
Conclusion
Hiring a real estate photographer is more than just finding someone with a camera and a drone. It’s about understanding their complete process, from handling various lighting conditions and architectural challenges to post-processing and safety protocols. By asking these often-overlooked questions, you can ensure a more informed decision, leading to high-quality photographs that effectively market your properties. Whether showcasing a cozy bungalow or a sprawling estate, these questions can help you find the right photographer to bring out the best in your listings.
I was recently contacted to shoot a 60-second video for Harmony Communities’ Salem Green Estates, a peaceful 55+ community in NE Salem. The team found me through Bark.com and requested drone footage highlighting the beautiful neighborhood.
My first visit was in late May, where I captured several short aerial videos and a variety of still photos. I put together a draft video, but after reviewing the footage, they mentioned the property wasn’t quite ready—particularly the pool, which needed some attention to look its best on camera.
In early July, I returned to Salem Green Estates for another round of filming, spending about an hour capturing fresh drone footage and stills. After I shared a second draft video, I asked for feedback on the visuals, text, and titles. After a couple of email exchanges, we fine-tuned the details, and I was able to deliver a final version they were thrilled with. Once they approved it, I rendered the video in full resolution.
It was a great experience working with the team at Salem Green Estates—such nice people—and I enjoyed capturing the welcoming vibe of this lovely community. It’s always rewarding to be part of a project that highlights what makes a place special!
