Want your listing to stop the scroll and stand out to buyers? In today's market, almost all buyers start their home search online — and a listing's screen appeal is as important as IRL curb appeal. Here are some tips and research-backed ideas on how to increase screen appeal to help buyers fall in love with your home before they even set foot inside.

Help buyers picture themselves in a home

Empty rooms require a lot of imagination for buyers. Take the guesswork out of trying to figure out a space with AI-powered virtual staging. Digital staging transforms spaces into stylish, on-trend rooms in seconds with a variety of decor styles that are nearly indistinguishable from physical staging. With virtual staging, buyers instantly picture themselves at home. 

Flaunt features that sell

New materials are bolstering resale values more than old favorites. Zillow research finds homes with statement finishes and natural materials — like soapstone and onyx, herringbone and cork floors, and Venetian plastered walls — sell for as much as 3.5% more than expected, adding approximately $12,500 to a typical U.S. home's sale price. Buyers also pay more for functional outdoor features, such as an outdoor shower, outdoor kitchen and bluestone patio. 

Make your listing share-worthy

Put your listing's best features front and center with media that is primed for social. Keep videos short and authentic to help people connect with you and the home. The first three seconds of a video are crucial to capturing attention on social platforms. Use brief listing spotlight reels and eye-catching graphics to highlight your home's best features and drive engagement.

Declutter your digital presence

Haven't updated your online profiles or website in a while? Here's why you should: One in three sellers find their agent online. Up-to-date websites and agent profiles on sites like Zillow make important first impressions with potential clients.

A professional and maintained online presence increases your visibility and credibility with both buyers and sellers. Your online profiles should include a recent headshot, your expertise and skills, and a record of your transactions. Make it easy for clients to find you and reach out — include your current contact information, a link to your website and recent testimonials that highlight your expertise.

Go bold: Buyers favor moody hues

Nearly a third of sellers paint before listing, and the right color may mean more money in your seller's pocket, according to new Zillow research. Today's buyers crave bold, sophisticated shades: think dark olive green kitchens, navy blue bedrooms and charcoal gray living rooms. Highlighting a recently updated, on-trend color scheme in your listing signals to buyers that the home is well-maintained and move-in ready.

Stay ahead with fresh insights

Want more insights like these? Zillow's research hub is packed with free up-to-date insights you can use to help keep your clients in the know with the latest trends and data.