90% of Buyers Start Their Search Online — Here’s Why That Changes Everything for Sellers
When it comes to selling your home in 2025, the first impression doesn’t happen at the showing—it happens online.
According to the National Association of Realtors, over 90% of buyers begin their home search on the internet. So if your online listing doesn’t immediately stand out, most buyers will scroll past without ever stepping foot inside your home.
Here’s what that means—and exactly why your listing needs to be dialed in from day one.
Step 1: Your Photos Matter More Than You Think
Today’s buyers scroll first and schedule later. If your photos don’t grab them within seconds, they’re gone.
Professional photography is about more than good lighting—it’s about positioning your home as a product people can emotionally connect with.
Great real estate photos:
- Highlight the space and layout
- Capture lifestyle, not just square footage
- Make your home feel clean, bright, and inviting
Homes with professional photography consistently:
- Get more online views
- Attract more showings
- Receive stronger offers (and faster)
Bottom line:
If your photos aren’t flawless, your home isn’t getting seen.
Step 2: Virtual Tours Attract More Serious Buyers
Think of a virtual tour as an open house for buyers who aren’t nearby.
In Northern Michigan—where second homes and out-of-town buyers are common—this is a major advantage.
A high-quality virtual tour:
- Builds confidence and reduces hesitation
- Helps buyers visualize living there
- Increases the chances of a showing or sight-unseen offer
And with many buyers coming from outside the region, virtual access is now an expectation, not a bonus.
Step 3: Your Online Presence Isn’t Just MLS Anymore
A strong listing isn’t just about being on Zillow or Realtor.com—it needs to be everywhere your ideal buyers are.
That means:
- Custom social media campaigns
- Targeted digital ad placement
- Boosted posts for specific buyer profiles
- High-quality listing descriptions that sell the story
And most importantly, it means launching with a real plan—not just throwing it online and waiting for someone to call.
Step 4: Price Like a Pro (Because Buyers Will Know)
Today’s buyers are more informed than ever. They’re analyzing:
- Price per square foot
- Days on market
- Recent sales nearby
If your price is too high, buyers won’t “make an offer below”—they’ll just keep scrolling.
If your price is strategic, it creates urgency, interest, and competition.
The right pricing isn’t about guessing—it’s about knowing the market and positioning your home to attract real action early.
What This Really Means for Sellers
In this market, your agent’s ability to market online isn’t a bonus—it’s everything.
You need someone who understands:
- Buyer psychology
- Visual marketing
- Digital ad strategy
- Online lead conversion
You don’t just need someone to list your home.
You need someone who knows how to launch it.
Want to Know What Your Home Could Sell For?
If you’re thinking about selling—or just curious what your home is worth—reach out anytime. I offer free market evaluations, and I’ll walk you through exactly how I’d position your home for maximum exposure and the best possible result.
www.caseygilling.com
90% of Buyers Start Their Search Online — Here’s Why That Changes Everything for Sellers
When it comes to selling your home in 2025, the first impression doesn’t happen at the showing—it happens online.
According to the National Association of Realtors, over 90% of buyers begin their home search on the internet. So if your online listing doesn’t immediately stand out, most buyers will scroll past without ever stepping foot inside your home.
Here’s what that means—and exactly why your listing needs to be dialed in from day one.
Step 1: Your Photos Matter More Than You Think
Today’s buyers scroll first and schedule later. If your photos don’t grab them within seconds, they’re gone.
Professional photography is about more than good lighting—it’s about positioning your home as a product people can emotionally connect with.
Great real estate photos:
- Highlight the space and layout
- Capture lifestyle, not just square footage
- Make your home feel clean, bright, and inviting
Homes with professional photography consistently:
- Get more online views
- Attract more showings
- Receive stronger offers (and faster)
Bottom line:
If your photos aren’t flawless, your home isn’t getting seen.
Step 2: Virtual Tours Attract More Serious Buyers
Think of a virtual tour as an open house for buyers who aren’t nearby.
In Northern Michigan—where second homes and out-of-town buyers are common—this is a major advantage.
A high-quality virtual tour:
- Builds confidence and reduces hesitation
- Helps buyers visualize living there
- Increases the chances of a showing or sight-unseen offer
And with many buyers coming from outside the region, virtual access is now an expectation, not a bonus.
Step 3: Your Online Presence Isn’t Just MLS Anymore
A strong listing isn’t just about being on Zillow or Realtor.com—it needs to be everywhere your ideal buyers are.
That means:
- Custom social media campaigns
- Targeted digital ad placement
- Boosted posts for specific buyer profiles
- High-quality listing descriptions that sell the story
And most importantly, it means launching with a real plan—not just throwing it online and waiting for someone to call.
Step 4: Price Like a Pro (Because Buyers Will Know)
Today’s buyers are more informed than ever. They’re analyzing:
- Price per square foot
- Days on market
- Recent sales nearby
If your price is too high, buyers won’t “make an offer below”—they’ll just keep scrolling.
If your price is strategic, it creates urgency, interest, and competition.
The right pricing isn’t about guessing—it’s about knowing the market and positioning your home to attract real action early.
What This Really Means for Sellers
In this market, your agent’s ability to market online isn’t a bonus—it’s everything.
You need someone who understands:
- Buyer psychology
- Visual marketing
- Digital ad strategy
- Online lead conversion
You don’t just need someone to list your home.
You need someone who knows how to launch it.
Want to Know What Your Home Could Sell For?
If you’re thinking about selling—or just curious what your home is worth—reach out anytime. I offer free market evaluations, and I’ll walk you through exactly how I’d position your home for maximum exposure and the best possible result.
