PREPARE FOR PHOTOS
PREPPING YOUR SPACE FOR THE BEST PHOTOS
A little prep goes a long way. The straighter and cleaner a space is before we arrive, the more time we spend making it look great in every shot, not fixing clutter in the frame. Here’s a room-by-room checklist to get your property ready.
BEFORE WE ARRIVE
A few five-minute fixes that make every room look sharper
•Turn on every light and lamp, and swap any burnt-out bulbs beforehand
•Turn off ceiling fans, TVs, and computer monitors
•Open blinds and curtains to bring in natural light
•Make every bed
•Clear shoes, coats, and bags from entryways
•Pull up small area rugs if they’re covering nice flooring
CURB APPEAL
This is the first photo most buyers ever see
•Move cars out of the driveway and close the garage
•Mow, edge, and clear leaves or debris
•Coil up hoses and put away yard tools
•Tuck away trash and recycling bins
•Sweep cobwebs from the porch and entryway
KITCHEN
Often the photo that gets the most attention, so keep it simple
•Clear countertops down to one or two intentional items
•Clear the fridge door of magnets and papers
•Empty the sink and dish rack
•Tuck away trash cans and dish towels
LIVING & DINING AREAS
Where buyers picture themselves relaxing or hosting
•Clear coffee tables and side tables of mail and remotes
•Straighten cushions and throws
•Keep the dining table simple: a runner or single centerpiece, nothing more
•Put toys and pet items out of sight
BEDROOMS
Every bedroom should look like a fresh start
•Make the bed and straighten linens
•Clear nightstands of chargers and clutter
•Tuck laundry baskets and shoes out of view
•Take down personalized decor in kids’ rooms
BATHROOMS
Spa-clean, not lived-in
•Clear counters of toiletries and personal items
•Close the toilet lid
•Set out fresh, matching towels
•Remove bath mats and shower items from view
BACKYARD AND OUTDOOR SPACES
Your outdoor living space deserves the same attention as inside
•Tidy outdoor furniture and fluff cushions
•Clear kids’ toys and equipment
•Skim and clean the pool, if you have one
•Tuck away hoses, tools, and trash bins
PETS
We love them, the camera doesn’t need to see them
•Store bowls, beds, and toys out of frame
•If possible, have someone take pets off-site during the shoot
•Run a lint roller over furniture
