
Home Checklist
This list should help you prepare the property for the shoot and bring your listing out from the crowd:
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Exterior:
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Move vehicles from driveway and away from the front of home.
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Place trash cans, and anything that is not attached to the home, in the garage or out of sight.
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Cut grass, and remove all weeds from cracks in concrete.
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Remove garden hoses from the yard
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Pressure wash driveways and sidewalks
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Clean windows and mirrors.
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Remove the yard sign.
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When possible, water the grass 4-5 hours prior to shooting- Even a brown lawn will look better.
Kitchen:
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Remove any Calendars. – Calendars make a listing dated if it goes over 30 days.
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Clear all counter tops. – No scrubbies, soap, knives or cutting boards.
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Okay to leave 1-2 small appliances for size perception, but more than that can be distracting.
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Clear the refrigerator completely. – No magnets, pictures, lists etc…
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Clean shiny appliances very well – Dirty appliances will look smudged with flash cameras.
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Remove trashcan from Kitchen.
General:
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Open all drapes and blinds on windows with a good view. – An exception would be baths and some bedrooms.
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For security, remove any expensive artwork and firearms from view. Even if they are decorative.
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Move/Remove any furniture that obstructs windows.
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Turn all ceiling fans OFF. They will create a motion blur in your photo and even video.
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Turn all inside lights ON. This will help balance the light in most areas.
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Turn all Televisions OFF, and clean them very well.
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Make beds and close closets. If you showcase a closet, do so separately if possible.
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Open doors between rooms to give an open feeling when possible.
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Remove ALL evidence of pets.
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Remove rugs from floors, especially from tile or wood floors.
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Conceal cords! Unplug them from the wall if needed. (Except lights)
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Replace any burnt out light bulbs.
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No shoes by doors or anywhere… Please place them in the closet.
Bathrooms:
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Toilet lids should be down.
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Clear the counter-top from absolutely every item considered to be personal.
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Remove cleaning brushes and trashcans.
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Clean mirrors and shower enclosures.
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Close Shower curtains. If custom tiled bath, showcase with shower curtain half-open.
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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.