Great real estate photography starts with thorough preparation!
Outside the Home
- Park vehicles away from the house
- Remove any trash or piles of branches, etc
- Mow the lawn & trim the edges
- Sweep paths, porch, patio, or deck space
- Trim bushes & trees that block the view to the home Rake up leaves and grass cuttings
- Put away any children’s or pet’s toys, bikes, etc. Hide or Wind-Up Garden Hoses
- Clean patio, deck, and porch furniture
- Set-up outdoor furniture with pillows, umbrellas, etc
- Remove BBQ Grill Cover, Hide BBQ Accessories
- Remove any visible foliage from the roof & gutters
- Add potted plants to the porch or deck
- Hide trash & recycling bins in Garage
- Wash windows & glass doors (siding if necessary)
Inside the Home
- Remove all signs that you have pets
- Replace burnt-out light bulbs
- Hide electrical cords & cables
- Remove clutter on counters, desks, furniture
- Hide remote controls & phone chargers
- Put away all toys for pets and kids
- Add small flower arrangements where appropriate Dust all furniture, TV and computer screens
- Vacuum carpets and wipe down hardwood floors
- Tidy gym equipment (weights on the floor etc)
- Be ready to turn-on Gas Fireplaces
- Prior to the photographers arrival, turn-on ALL the lights, including lamps & open all curtains and blinds
Kitchen
- Put away all dirty dishes, dish soaps, scrubbers, etc
- Clear counters of ALL clutter & small appliances
- Remove all fridge magnets, notes, photos, etc
- Clean surfaces on cabinets, counters & appliances
- Sweep or mop kitchen floor
Dining Room & Eating Areas
- Add Dining Table centerpieces: candles or small flower bouquets
- Remove excess chairs that don’t fit around the table
Bedrooms
- Make beds and fluff bed pillows
- Remove clutter from nightstands and dresser tops Pick up all laundry and avoid over-flowing hampers
- Tidy the Master Closet (it may be photographed)
- Hide valuable items like jewelry & watches
- Make sure items under the beds can’t be seen
Bathrooms
- Remove toothbrushes, razors, soap dispensers
- Clean mirrors, glass, and all surfaces well, making sure there are no hard-water spots or soap scum
- Remove all bottles and soap from shower & bath
- Remove waste baskets, toilet brushes & plungers
- Hang fresh towels in every bathroom
- Close toilet lids
- Make sure there is toilet paper in the dispenser
- Remove all holiday & seasonal decorations