ArcaMax

Dear Monty: We will sell our house on our own in the spring. We want a video so people can preview the house first to see if it will work for them. It will save us time from showing it to someone who walks away because they didn't like the floor plan, while also saving them the trip. Do you have any advice for making the video?

Monty's Answer: Creating a video tour offers benefits beyond convenience. As a seller, you demonstrate consideration and seriousness about selling, building trust early in a potential relationship. This goodwill often leads to positive negotiation environments. Here are three effective methods to create your home tour video:

No. 1: Professional Photographers: There's much more to creating outstanding visuals than most realize. Professional photographers specializing in real estate use specialized equipment such as Matterport, Chameleon or Ricoh360 cameras. They understand framing, lighting, perspective, composition and contrast -- elements crucial for showcasing your home effectively. Open your door and let them work. Depending on your home's size, location and the photographer's expertise, expect to pay $200-$800 or more. This option provides the highest quality result with minimal effort on your part.

No. 2: Smartphone Applications: Several apps allow you to create professional-looking videos at a fraction of professional costs. Free options such as Zillow 3D Home, The3DApp, HomesGo (all available through the Apple Store), or Google Tour Creator (Google Play) offer user-friendly interfaces. Some apps require you to upload footage for professional editing, while others generate the video within the app. These solutions balance quality and affordability, requiring moderate technical comfort but delivering impressive results.

No. 3: Photo Compilation: Take high-quality photos and string them together using editing software. Apple's preinstalled iMovie (free since 2010), Filmora (free trial, $49 annual subscription) or Movavi (free Windows alternative) can create compelling slideshows. For best results, shoot during daylight hours with all interior lights on, declutter spaces beforehand and follow a logical progression through your home. To give you a sense of a finished product, you can check out my YouTube page to see professional photographs strung together on iMovie to display a ship model.

Pro Tips for Any Method:

-- Begin with exterior shots showing curb appeal.

-- Follow a natural walking path through your home.

-- Include all rooms, closets and storage areas.

-- Highlight updated features and neighborhood amenities.

-- Keep the total length under five minutes.

-- Consider adding soft background music and room labels.

-- Narrate key features that viewers might miss visually -- such as new HVAC systems or roof replacements.

-- Film on a sunny day with curtains open for natural lighting that creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.

-- Show seasonal advantages where possible (fireplace in winter, outdoor spaces in summer).

-- Include a brief panorama of the neighborhood, nearby parks or community amenities.

-- Consider filming at different times of day to showcase how natural light affects living spaces.

-- Remove personal photographs.

-- End with contact information and your preferred showing times.

Remember, if using photographs you didn't take (such as from a previous listing), obtain permission from the photographer to avoid copyright infringement.

By investing in a quality video tour, you'll save countless hours on unsuitable showings while giving serious buyers the confidence to schedule an in-person visit -- respecting everyone's time while maximizing your home's appeal in today's digital-first market.

Richard Montgomery is a syndicated columnist, published author, retired real estate executive, serial entrepreneur and the founder of DearMonty.com and PropBox, Inc. He provides consumers with options to real estate issues. Follow him on Twitter (X) @montgomRM or DearMonty.com.

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