Written by Lori Auerbach, Realtor.com | Vanderblue Team | Higgins Group Real Estate
Will Rogers once said, “you never get a second chance to make a first impression” and this is definitely true when it comes to the listing photographs for the sale of your home. The first contact a home buyer has with your home will be online which is why it’s so important to have the best photos to accompany your listing information.
Preparing for professional photography does require some work but if you follow these recommendations your home will be camera-ready when your photographer arrives.
Exterior
Have the lawn mowed & shrubs trimmed.
In the winter, clear snow from sidewalks, driveway, patios & decks.
No empty planters; add seasonal colorful flowers to pots placed at the entrance and on the patio.
Weather permitting, open patio umbrellas and place cushions on outdoor furniture.
Remove pet waste.
Trash cans & garden hose should be stored out of sight.
Remove cars from the driveway and in front of the home.
Sidewalks, decks & patios should be swept.
Store soccer goals, balls, bikes, and other toys.
Hide all electrical cords.
Interior (General)
Declutter-remove stacks of magazine, newspapers, mail, etc.
Clean out the fireplace and paint the interior if necessary.
Clean the windows (inside and out).
Fireplace mantels- limit accessories to 3-5 pieces.
Remove small rugs.
Coffee tables- limit accessories to 1-3 items.
Stash away trashcans.
Store phones, charging cables/docks away.
Replace any burned out light bulbs; turn on all lights and open all blinds to the same level in each room.
Remove any seasonal decorations.
Vacuum &/or mop all floors.
Touch up any painted surfaces that may show wear & tear.
Remove all evidence of pets- beds, bowls, toys, etc.
Kitchen
Clear all counter surfaces completely; no knife blocks, paper towels, dish towels, spices, etc.
No dishes, scrub brushes, dish racks or soap in the kitchen sink.
Clear any school papers, artwork, photos, and magnets from the front of the refrigerator.
Place a bowl of fruit on the counter.
Bedrooms
Clear nightstand surfaces of tissue boxes, phone, magazines and charging cords.
Press bed linens if necessary.
Remove items stored under beds because they will likely show up in the photos depending on the angle if the shots.
Remove personal photos.
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