Sell Land By Owner

Drone shots get the most attention, but ground-level photos and videos are just as important. In fact, sometimes the drone angles already capture what you need — the entry, the terrain, even nearby features. But if they don't, ground shots fill in the gaps. Buyers don't only want to see the land from the sky; they want to know what it feels like to drive up, walk in, and stand on it.

The good news is you don't need a $2,000 camera to do this right. A modern smartphone, whether iPhone or Android, is more than enough if you follow a few simple rules.

Why Ground-Level Photos Matter

First impressions:

Buyers imagine themselves pulling up to the property. If the entry looks inviting, they're already leaning in.

Trust factor:

Photos from the ground prove the land is accessible, walkable, and real — not just a pin on a map.

Show character:

Trees, slopes, paths, and views can't always be captured from the air. Ground shots highlight the human perspective.

Video sells:

A simple thirty-second walk-through video builds trust faster than any photo gallery. And if you ever have a remote buyer who can't visit the property in person, this kind of video usually seals the deal.

Photo Checklist

Here's the shot list I use on nearly every parcel:

1. Street View / Curb Appeal

Take 1–3 shots from across the street, facing the property.
Show the road, entrance, and surrounding area.

2. Entry Point / Driveway

Snap where a driveway would logically go.
Make sure it looks clear and accessible.

3. Walking Path

If the property is wooded or overgrown, walk a few steps in and capture a path view.
Buyers want to know they can physically step onto the land.

4. Inside the Property

Take 1–3 shots inside, facing different directions (north, south, east, west if possible).
Include tree lines, open clearings, or elevation changes.

5. Unique Features

Streams, views, rock formations, large trees, or any landmark.
Even a simple "sunset view" shot can create an emotional hook.

Total:

Aim for 5–10 strong ground shots that make the land feel inviting. Sometimes less is more — don't add extra photos if they make the property look less appealing.

Video Checklist

Walk-through (30–60 seconds): Start at the entry, walk into the property, and slowly pan around.
360 Spin: Stand in the middle of the property and rotate slowly for a full view.
Voiceover (optional): Say something simple like, "This is the 1.2-acre lot on Oak Drive. As you can see, it's wooded but walkable with a nice open space in the back."

Pro Tips (With Just a Phone)

Lighting matters:

Shoot during the "golden hours" (early morning or late afternoon). Avoid harsh midday sun that creates glare and shadows.

Hold steady:

Use both hands, tuck your elbows in, and move slowly. If possible, use a cheap $20 tripod or gimbal.

Shoot horizontally:

Always shoot photos and video in landscape mode. Buyers browse listings on desktops and laptops where vertical shots look unprofessional.

Clean the lens:

Sounds obvious, but a quick wipe can double image clarity.

Show scale:

Include a person, vehicle, or sign in one or two shots so buyers can sense the size.

What to Avoid

Clutter or trash: If there's debris, angle your shots to minimize it. Clean it up if possible.
Negative surroundings: Don't highlight junk piles, unattractive neighbors, or anything off-property that drags value down.
Blurry or tilted images: If it looks sloppy, buyers assume you're sloppy.

⚡ Key Takeaway:

Ground-level photos and short videos make your property real to buyers. Even with nothing more than an iPhone, you can create professional-looking visuals that increase trust and make your listing stand out.

Ready to learn more about professional presentation? Let's continue with the next lesson.

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