In today’s competitive real estate market, high-quality listing photos are more than just a luxury—they’re a necessity. But one of the most common questions Tulsa realtors and homeowners ask is: How much does professional real estate photography cost, and is it worth the investment? In this article, we’ll break down the pricing, value proposition, and common concerns about real estate photography costs.
Breaking Down the Cost of Real Estate Photography
The cost of professional real estate photography in Tulsa can vary based on factors such as the size of the property, the number of images, and additional services like drone photography or virtual staging. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect:
1. Standard Real Estate Photography
- Small to Medium Homes (Up to 3,000 sq ft): $149 – $250
- Larger Homes (3,000 – 5,000 sq ft): $250 – $400
- Luxury Homes (5,000+ sq ft): $400 – $800
Includes:
- 20-40 professionally edited images
- Next-day turnaround
- Online delivery
2. Drone Photography
- Aerial Photos Only: $100 – $200
- Aerial Photos + Video Package: $250 – $500
Drone photography is perfect for showcasing large properties, waterfront homes, and unique land features.
3. Real Estate Video Tours
- Basic Walkthrough Video (Under 2 minutes): $200 – $400
- Cinematic Video Tour (With Music & Graphics): $500 – $1,200
Video tours help engage buyers by providing a dynamic and immersive look at the property.
4. Virtual Staging
- Per Room: $40 – $80
- Full Home Package: $200 – $500
Virtual staging is a cost-effective alternative to physical staging, helping buyers visualize a furnished space.
5. 3D Matterport Tours & Floor Plans
- Matterport 3D Tour: $200 – $600 (based on property size)
- 2D Floor Plans: $75 – $200
3D tours allow buyers to virtually walk through a home, which is especially useful for remote buyers.
Is It Worth the Investment?
Now that we’ve covered the pricing, let’s discuss the return on investment (ROI) of professional real estate photography.
1. Homes Sell Faster
Listings with professional photos sell 32% faster than those without. A well-presented home attracts more interest, leading to quicker sales.
2. Higher Sale Prices
According to real estate studies, homes with high-quality listing photos sell for $3,000 – $11,000 more on average. The better the visuals, the more perceived value buyers see in the home.
3. More Buyer Interest
90% of buyers search for homes online. Professional images grab attention and increase the likelihood of buyers scheduling a showing.
4. Competitive Edge for Realtors
Realtors who invest in professional photography build a stronger brand. High-quality images help establish credibility and attract more seller clients.
Addressing Common Concerns
“Can’t I Just Use My Phone?”
While smartphone cameras have improved, they can’t replicate the lighting, composition, and editing expertise of a professional real estate photographer. Buyers can easily spot low-quality images, which may hurt your listing’s performance.
“Is It Too Expensive?”
When compared to the potential increase in sale price and faster selling time, the cost of professional photography is minimal. For example, a $300 investment in photos for a $300,000 home could result in a $5,000+ higher sale price.
“Do I Need Photography for Every Listing?”
While budget-conscious sellers may hesitate, even lower-priced homes benefit from professional photos. Buyers make decisions based on first impressions, and high-quality visuals help listings stand out.
Final Thoughts
Professional real estate photography is an investment that pays off in faster sales, higher offers, and a better reputation for agents. If you’re a Tulsa real estate agent or homeowner looking to maximize your listing’s potential, professional photography is worth every penny.
Looking for top-tier real estate photography in Tulsa? Book a session with The Firebrand today and give your listings the competitive edge they deserve!
