While the winter months may make us all want to curl up inside, the real estate market is still going strong. In fact, many buyers start their home search in the colder season, making winter one of the busiest times for those looking to purchase a home.

If you’re planning to sell your home this winter, that’s great news! However, potential buyers may quickly pass over your listing if your home doesn’t look inviting in the photos. So, how do you capture your home at its best when the weather isn’t cooperating? With the right approach, you can showcase your property beautifully, even in the chill of winter.

Here are some insider tips to help you take stunning real estate photos that will have buyers eager to schedule a tour—no matter the season.

1. Wait for a Sunny Day (If You Can!)

In Utah, sunny winter days can be rare, but they are worth the wait. If you’re working with a professional photographer like us at BK Captured, we’ll make sure your home shines under the perfect light. But if you’re taking photos yourself, try to snap pictures when the sun is out and, ideally, around noon. This will give you soft, even light and avoid dark shadows that can diminish the appeal of your home.

2. Clean Your Windows for Maximum Clarity

Windows can get streaky from condensation in winter, so it’s essential to clean them before your shoot. Turn up the heat inside to help minimize condensation, and make sure your windows are sparkling to let in as much natural light as possible.

Remember: clean windows are a small detail that can make a big difference in how your photos turn out!

3. Use All the Indoor Light You Can

Winter days are short and often overcast, so you’ll want to maximize every bit of light inside your home. Turn on every light in the house, including lamps, overheads, and even the bathroom lights. The more illumination, the warmer and more inviting your space will look in the photos.

If you have a fireplace, definitely use it! A crackling fire adds warmth and coziness to your winter photos—an inviting feature that can appeal to potential buyers (If the fireplace doesn’t work don’t stress we can always photoshop one in).

4. Shovel the Snow—Make the Entrance Inviting

While snow is beautiful, a walkway buried under a foot of snow can be a deal-breaker for buyers. It screams this house is not cared for. Clear off the driveway, walkways, and outdoor spaces before you have your photos taken. A tidy, accessible entrance can go a long way in making your home feel welcoming—even in winter.

5. Store Away Holiday Decorations

Holiday decor can date your listing, even in the early months of the year. After the season’s festivities are over, pack away the wreaths, lights, and other seasonal touches. You want buyers to envision themselves in the home throughout the year, not just the holidays.

6. Enhance Your Curb Appeal with Winter-Friendly Plants

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean your garden can’t look great! A few carefully chosen hardy plants can add color and texture to your outdoor spaces. If you’re unsure what will work best in Utah’s winter climate, consider consulting a local garden expert or hiring a landscaper to spruce things up.

Also, don’t shy away from showcasing your outdoor living areas. A fire pit, outdoor lighting, or even cozy seating arrangements can help buyers visualize how they’ll use the space in every season, just make sure they are clear of snow.

7. Include Photos from Other Seasons (If Possible)

While winter photos are crucial for showing your home in its current condition, it’s also a great idea to include a few images taken during other seasons. Show off your backyard in full bloom, your front porch in the springtime, or your patio in the warm summer months. This gives buyers a fuller picture of the home’s year-round appeal and helps them envision life in the house long after winter melts away. We are always happy to come back and shoot a property in every season, so you can show off the year round appeal.

At BK Captured, we specialize in creating the best possible images of your home, no matter the season. With a few smart adjustments and the right photography, we’ll help your property stand out to Utah buyers this winter. Let’s work together to make your home look its absolute best!