How to Prepare Your Home for Real Estate Photos

It’s picture day! Your home’s first impression is crucial, and today is the day to make it shine. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure your property looks its best for real estate photos.

The Basics
Clean Thoroughly: Ensure the entire home is spotless, and freshly blow the yard, walkways, and patios.
Declutter: Remove most items from countertops and furniture to create a clean, open space.
Check Lighting: Ensure all light bulbs are functioning.
Exterior Preparation
Park Vehicles Away: Keep cars out of the driveway and away from the front of the house.
Organize Outdoor Items: Neatly arrange hoses, garbage, and recycling bins.
Tidy Outdoor Furniture: Clean and arrange pillows and umbrellas, and remove covers from furniture and barbecues.
Pet Waste: Clean up any pet waste in the yard.
Holiday Décor: Remove any holiday decorations to prevent dating the listing.
Interior Preparation
Window Coverings: Utilize natural light but adjust coverings to hide any unattractive views.
Clean Glass Surfaces: Clean all mirrors and windows for a sparkling finish.
Hide Trash and Laundry: Move trash cans and laundry baskets out of sight.
Store Pet Items: Hide pet dishes, toys, and beds.
Turn Off Electronics: Ensure televisions, computers, and ceiling fans are off.
Conceal Clutter: Hide remote controls, chargers, and tidy up cables.
Arrange Furniture: Tidy up the placement of furniture for a cohesive look.
Kitchen Preparation
Clear the Sink: Ensure the sink is empty and hide sponges, dish racks, and cleaning products.
Declutter Counters: Remove most small appliances and take down refrigerator magnets, photos, and calendars.
Organize Shelves: Tidy up any open or glass-fronted shelves.
Living Areas
Minimize Clutter: Reduce the number of photos, personal items, and knick-knacks on display.
Organize Bookshelves: Ensure bookshelves are neat and orderly.
Bedroom Preparation
Make the Beds: Ensure beds are properly made and wrinkle-free.
Declutter Surfaces: Clear nightstands and dressers of excess items.
Straighten Closets: Tidy up and organize walk-in closets.
Bathroom Preparation
Lower Toilet Seats: Make sure all toilet seats are down.
Hide Personal Items: Store toothbrushes and personal hygiene products out of sight. Clear countertops, showers, and bathtubs of most items.
Neat Towels: Fold towels neatly and ensure they are wrinkle-free.
By following these steps, you’ll create a welcoming and appealing environment that will stand out in real estate photos. First impressions count, so make sure your home is picture-perfect!