In today’s digital world, homebuyers generally start their search online. The following suggestions are made to help make the first impressions really count when your home is listed by you or by your broker. My job is to create images of your house that reflect the uniqueness of the property and attract interested buyers to come to see the house in person! The preparation you do will have a direct effect on allowing the images to best represent your house to potential buyers. I hope you find these guidelines helpful.
Be sure to clean your whole house from top to bottom
Turn on all the lights just before the photo shoot. Be sure to replace burned out light bulbs. If you have decorative lights to highlight art work, bookcases, etc. be sure to have them on as well
Turn off ceiling fans, TVs, computer screens
Open blinds and window treatments in order to maximize outside light
Be sure the windows are clean, especially first floor windows
It is suggested that you remove personal photographs
Make all beds and place all shoes and jackets in closets
If you have pets, it is helpful to have them out of the way during the photo shoot. Put away pet food and water bowls as well as pet toys
Close garage doors and be sure to remove cars from the driveway as well as the front of the house
Clean the yard and have it looking as nice as possible
Remove “clutter” ie. empty planters, toys, sports equipment, trash barrels, visible water hoses, etc.
Sweep the driveway and walkways
If you have umbrellas on the patio, open them up
Wipe down outdoor furniture and have cushions look clean ?Preparing the Interior of the House
Clear the countertops including any center islands
Clear the outside of the refrigerator of magnets, photos, calendars, etc.
Clear the sink of any dishes
Hide garbage cans
If you have a breakfast nook or dining area in the kitchen, feature a centerpiece such as a bouquet of flowers. You might also actually set the table with a place setting appropriate for the table.
Remove child seats and booster chairs
Clear the table, dust and polish the table top
Have an appropriate centerpiece for the table
Consider setting the table as you would for hosting a dinner for family and friends
Remove child seats and booster chairs
“De-Clutter” - Remove stacks of magazines, papers, mail, kid’s toys, etc.
Simplify the fireplace mantel so that is it not overwhelmed with items
Clean the interior of the fireplace. Depending on the season, consider having a nice fire going
Check to see where the cables, extension cords are visible and straighten them out as much as possible
Fluff and arrange the furniture pillows
Be sure that all beds are made and that items visible under the beds are removed
De-clutter dressers, night stands and other furniture tops
Store away any cables (ie phone charger cables) and simplify what is on the nightstand
Recommend that you remove all personal items
Use a nice bedspread and attractive pillows
Open the shades and blinds to allow as much light into the room as possible
Clear the countertops- no toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, medications, deodorants, soap bars, etc
Toilet seats DOWN
Leave out unused towels and remove all used towels
Be sure that the mirrors are clean