One of the biggest questions I am always asked when I meet with sellers is how can I get my home ready for photographs and showings? What do I need to do to make it shine? Well I have compiled a list of what I consider the Ultimate Guide for getting your house ready for photos.
Exterior Front and Back
- Remove cars from driveway
- Close all windows
- Sweep walkways
- Pick up leaves, sticks, branches
- Mow and Edge Yard
- Put toys, bicycles away
- Store seasonal décor
- Stow garden tools, supplies
- Remove all hoses
- Straighten and arrange deck furniture
- Clean pool area
- Put away trash receptacles
Interior: Main Areas
- Remove personal items/photos
- Remove all visible clutter
- Open shades/blinds
- Replace burned out light bulbs
- Tidy up or put away all children’s toys
- Empty waste baskets
- Hide pet dishes/toys/beds
- Vacuum carpets
- Sweep hard floors
- Remove newspapers, mail
- Display attractive books
- Turn OFF televisions
- Turn ON all lights
- Turn OFF ceiling fans
Interior: Kitchen
- Remove all items from refrigerator door
- Store food in cabinets
- De-clutter counters, stove
- Hide soaps, cleaning items
- Hide dish towels, sponges
- Clear sink of dishes
- Put away draining rack
- Organize items on open shelves
Interior: Dining Room
- Straighten/push in dining chairs
- Add centerpiece, candles
- Set the table for dinner
- Add a vase of flowers
- Add a bottle of wine, glasses
Interior: Bedrooms
- Make the beds
- Arrange decorative pillows
- Put away clothing, shoes
- Clean under the bed
- Clear surfaces of clutter
Interior: Bathrooms
- Make the bathrooms sparkle
- Hang fresh towels
- Clear counters of toiletries
- Clean mirrors
- Clean toilet and close lid
- Remove all items from tub and shower
For Showings
- Lights On
- Spray Air Freshener
- Turn On Music (If Possible) Light Jazz or Coffee House Type Music
- Leave the House and Take Pets