How to Prepare your Home for Real Estate Photos

At a minimum, the house should look clean and organized. Decluttering countertops go a long way in making a home look open and inviting. Smaller things, such as removing visible garbage cans, can also make the house look cleaner. And most importantly check to ensure every light fixture in the home turns on with a working light bulb. 

Exterior

> Park vehicles away from the house or in the garage. 

> Freshen up landscaping.                                           

> Remove trash, branches, leaves, dead plants, etc.     

> Sweep outdoor space and walkways.                           

> Remove visible foliage from the roof and gutters.       

> Remove debris, hose and toys from the pool.               

> Store outdoor trash and recycling bins​, outdoor tools, equipment, toys, bikes, etc.- It is best to place them in the garage or shed for the photoshoot.                           

> Store and clean braai stands and built in braai area. 

> Wash windows and glass doors and clean outdoor furniture.                                        ​                                     

> Mow the grass and neaten​ the garden or yard. 

Interior 

> Lights off - Artificial lighting can change the colours of the home. Natural outside light is the best. In rooms with no windows, the photographer will adjust the lighting accordingly.                                                   

> Horizontal blinds and shutters - It is best to keep horizontal blinds down.                                  ​                       

> Vertical blinds - usually looks best fully open and adjusted all the same.                                                             

> Clear all countertops and remove clutter.                       

> Depersonalize home with photos, names, etc.         

> Turn off fans and store portable fans. Clean mirrors and windows. Vacuum carpets and polish floors.         ​ 

> Store waste baskets and laundry baskets out of sight.   

> Turn off televisions, computers and dust the screens. Store remote controls and chargers.     ​                         

> Straighten furniture, hide electrical cords and cables. 

> Remove dirty dishes, store dishes, clean the sink, surfaces and appliances, store food. Clear counter of clutter and small appliances. Remove refrigerator magnets, photos, etc.                                                             

> Hide soaps and towels, cleaning items, sweep and mop kitchen floor and rug.                                                    

> Organize open shelves. Store personal items.                 

> Dress the beds correctly with neat beddings.                 

> Close toilet lids and store toilet brushes and plunges. 

Storage Area         

The storage areas, such as inside closets, garages, storage sheds are usually not photographed unless the agent requests. Therefore these areas are perfect to keep items out of sight. A photoshoot also cannot be done in the rain.