Wall Street Journal recently published findings that reveal online users’ first impressions of real estate listings. The data, compiled by the Institute for Behavioral and Experimental Real Estate at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA provides a breakdown of how 45 home buyers and students looked at 10 different home listings, each containing only six photographs.

Researchers found that 95% of users looked at the first home photo – typically an exterior – the longest, for about 20 seconds. After that, their eyes tended to flit all over the screen, following a Z pattern, beginning in the upper left corner, to the upper right corner, and down the page. 76% of users viewed the property description for location, price, and property value. Eye-tracking technology was used to quantify the results, which is recognized and accepted by the Journal of Real Estate Research.

Overall findings show online viewers spend 60% of their time on photos, 20% on property description, and 20% on the real estate agent’s remarks. Without an eye-catching photo, viewers will pass a great listing by. Experts conclude, it is more important to have photos, property details, and remarks visible on the first page without the need for scrolling than anything else. Understanding how people look at real estate listings can help brokers refine their approach and sell your home.

Sotheby’s International Realty (SIR), a leader in the sale and purchase of luxury properties around the world is widely known for doing just that with stunning photography, technological advances, and commitment to unparalleled service. Buyers or sellers who partner with SIR can be assured they’re with a firm that is constantly one step ahead of the competition. For more information on the Lake Tahoe housing market, or to find your expert broker in real estate call 888.444.1505. Pictured above: 869 Lakeshore Boulevard, Lake Tahoe, Incline Village, NV | $15,500,000 USD, a listing that sold 4th quarter 2012.