How to Prepare Your Home for Real Estate Photography:
When it comes to selling a home, high-quality photographs are essential. They are often the first impression potential buyers have of the property, and can make or break their interest in scheduling a showing. To ensure that your home is photographed quickly, efficiently, and with the best possible results, it is important to follow this pre-shoot checklist.
Exterior
- Remove vehicles from the driveway and away from the front of the home.
- Place trash cans and anything that is not attached to the home out of sight.
- Clean windows.
- Organize deck furniture, uncover grill, open patio umbrella, etc.
- Make sure the yard is free of kids’ toys, evidence of pets, unnecessary clutter, etc.
Interior
General:
- Remove as much clutter as possible, especially personal belongings that are not included in the sale.
- Remove all evidence of pets.
- Open up blinds and remove any fixed window coverings that block natural light.
- Turn off all TVs, computer screens, and ceiling fans.
- Conceal power cords; unplug them if necessary (except lights).
- Put all shoes away.
- Make sure there are no clothes in the machines or hanging in the laundry room.
- Make beds, straighten picture frames/artwork, organize pillows, etc.
- Avoid hiding items under beds or furniture.
- Remove any personal information that you wouldn’t want visible online.
Kitchen:
- Clear all countertops. A few small appliances, fruit bowls, plants, etc. are okay, but avoid anything tall that might be distracting or block the view.
- Clear the fridge completely. Remove all magnets, photos, lists, etc.
- Put the trash can away.
- Make sure the sink is clean and free of dishes.
- Put away dish soap, cloths, etc.
- Remove calendars as they can date a listing.
- Straighten bar stools and table chairs.
Bathrooms:
- Put toilet lids down.
- Clear the counter of all personal belongings.
- Clean mirrors.
- Open shower curtains – remove all bottles, razors, soap, etc.
- Place a fresh roll of toilet paper on the holder.
- Remove toilet brush and trash can.
Best Practices to Consider:
- If you have limited space, consider designating a secondary room for temporary storage ahead of time rather than trying to move items from room to room while the photographer is on site.
- Don’t rush your photographer – great images are critical when marketing a home for sale, so it is in your best interest to be patient and let your photographer do their thing.