Preparing a House for Real Estate Photography

High-quality photographs are crucial in showcasing a property’s best features and attracting potential buyers. As a real estate photographer, I have compiled a comprehensive guide to help homeowners and realtors prepare a house for a photo shoot. Follow these steps to ensure your property looks its best in every shot.

General Preparation

1. Declutter Every Room

   • Remove personal items such as family photos, toys, and excessive decor.

   • Store away unnecessary furniture to create a sense of spaciousness.

   • Clear countertops in the kitchen and bathroom to showcase clean, open spaces.

2. Deep Clean

   • Dust all surfaces, including baseboards, ceiling fans, and light fixtures.

   • Vacuum and mop floors, and clean carpets and rugs.

   • Ensure windows are clean to let in maximum natural light.

3. Lighting

   • Replace any burnt-out light bulbs and ensure all fixtures have matching bulbs for a consistent look.

   • Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light.

   • Turn on all lights during the shoot, including lamps and under-cabinet lighting.

Exterior Preparation

1. Curb Appeal

   • Mow the lawn, trim bushes, and clear any debris from the yard.

   • Pressure wash the driveway, walkways, and the exterior of the house if needed.

   • Touch up any peeling paint on doors, trim, or fences.

2. Outdoor Spaces

   • Arrange outdoor furniture neatly and ensure cushions are clean and fresh.

   • Remove any clutter, such as garden tools, toys, or excess decorations.

   • Clean the pool, if applicable, and ensure any water features are operational.

Interior Preparation

1. Living Areas

   • Arrange furniture to highlight the flow and functionality of the space.

   • Add tasteful, minimalistic decor to create a welcoming atmosphere.

   • Remove any pet-related items, such as beds, toys, or litter boxes.

2. Kitchen

   • Clear countertops of all appliances and personal items.

   • Clean all surfaces, including the sink, stovetop, and backsplash.

   • Ensure the fridge is free of magnets and papers, and hide garbage bins.

3. Bedrooms

   • Make beds with clean, coordinated bedding and add decorative pillows if desired.

   • Clear nightstands of personal items, leaving only a lamp and minimal decor.

   • Organize closets to give a sense of ample storage space.

4. Bathrooms

   • Remove all personal items from the shower, tub, and vanity.

   • Clean mirrors, faucets, and other fixtures to a shine.

   • Hang fresh, neatly folded towels and ensure toilet lids are closed.

5. Home Office/Study

   • Organize the desk area, removing excess papers and personal items.

   • Ensure electronics are tidy, with cords hidden or neatly arranged.

   • Add a few tasteful decorative items, such as a plant or a clock.

Final Touches

1. Walkthrough

   • Conduct a final walkthrough to ensure everything is in place and there are no overlooked areas.

   • Check that all lights are on, and window treatments are appropriately adjusted.

2. Fragrance

   • Ensure the house smells fresh. Avoid strong scents; instead, opt for a light, clean fragrance or simply ensure proper ventilation.

3. Communication

   • Coordinate with your photographer to discuss any specific features you want to highlight.

   • Be prepared to make minor adjustments as directed by the photographer during the shoot.

Proper preparation is key to capturing the best photographs of a property. By following this guide, you can help ensure that your house looks its absolute best, making it more appealing to potential buyers. Remember, the goal is to create a clean, inviting, and spacious environment that allows buyers to envision themselves living in the space. Happy prepping!