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Why Your Best Deals Might Be Hiding in Ugly MLS Photos

Bad photography can bury great properties. How to find the gems in the junk.

You’re scrolling through the MLS, looking for your next big deal—and then you see it. A photo of someone’s elbow in a bathroom mirror. A blurry shot of a dark hallway that looks like a still from Paranormal Activity. A kitchen that might be orange... or just poorly lit.

Most people scroll right past. But you? You might have just found a gold mine.

The Ugly Truth About Ugly Listings

Many sellers—especially FSBOs and out-of-state landlords—don’t bother with professional photography. Sometimes agents are rushed. Sometimes Uncle Bob with the iPhone gets the job. Whatever the reason, a terrible photo doesn’t always mean a terrible property.

In fact, it could mean a motivated seller with zero clue how to market.

Here's How to Spot the Hidden Gems

1. Look Past the Clutter

   If there are toys everywhere or dishes piled in the sink, don’t flinch. That’s not a design flaw—it’s a discount opportunity.

2. Read Between the Frames

   A photo that’s too dark? The room might be just fine. A weird angle? Maybe they were trying to not show the beautiful hardwood floors they forgot to clean.

3. Compare the Comps

   Check other listings nearby. If this one is underpriced and has horrible photos, it might just be suffering from Bad Photographer Syndrome.

4. Zoom In On Language

   Listings with phrases like “needs TLC,” “as-is,” or “great bones” paired with grainy, 1997-quality images? That’s a sign. Not of a teardown—of a deal waiting for someone with vision.

5. Run the Numbers Anyway

   Plug it into your deal analyzer. If the numbers work, a bad photo shoot isn’t a reason to walk away. It’s a reason to look closer.

Remember…

Some of the best flips and rentals are hiding behind bad lighting, cluttered counters, and confusing angles. While others chase the glossy listings, you can scoop up the overlooked ones—and laugh all the way to the bank.

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