This list should help you prepare the property for the shoot and bring your listing out from the crowd:

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Exterior:

 

• Move vehicles from driveway and away from the front of home.

• Place trash cans, and anything that is not attached to the home, in the garage or out of sight.

• Cut grass, and remove all weeds from cracks in concrete.

• Remove garden hoses from the yard

• Pressure wash driveways and sidewalks

• Clean windows and mirrors.

• Remove the yard sign.

• When possible, water the grass 4-5 hours prior to shooting- Even a brown lawn will look better.

 

Kitchen:

 

• Remove any Calendars. – Calendars make a listing dated if it goes over 30 days.

• Clear all counter tops. – No scrubbies, soap, knives or cutting boards.

• Okay to leave 1-2 small appliances for size perception, but more than that can be distracting.

• Clear the refrigerator completely. – No magnets, pictures, lists etc…

• Clean shiny appliances very well – Dirty appliances will look smudged with flash cameras.

• Remove trashcan from Kitchen.

 

General:

 

• Open all drapes and blinds on windows with a good view. – An exception would be baths and some bedrooms.

• For security, remove any expensive artwork and firearms from view. Even if they are decorative.

• Move/Remove any furniture that obstructs windows.

• Turn all ceiling fans OFF. They will create a motion blur in your photo and even video.

• Turn all inside lights ON. This will help balance the light in most areas.

• Turn all Televisions OFF, and clean them very well.

• Make beds and close closets. If you showcase a closet, do so separately if possible.

• Open doors between rooms to give an open feeling when possible.

• Remove ALL evidence of pets.

• Remove rugs from floors, especially from tile or wood floors.

• Conceal cords! Unplug them from the wall if needed. (Except lights)

• Replace any burnt out light bulbs.

• No shoes by doors or anywhere… Please place them in the closet.

 

Bathrooms:

 

• Toilet lids should be down.

• Clear the counter-top from absolutely every item considered to be personal.

• Remove cleaning brushes and trashcans.

• Clean mirrors and shower enclosures.

• Close Shower curtains. If custom tiled bath, showcase with shower curtain half-open.

• Remove toilet paper from holder, or use a full roll. No partial rolls please.

 

 

There are many other items to consider when preparing a home for Real Estate Photography, however by just following the above guidelines, your listing should stand out from the crowd. You only get one chance to make a first impression.