Getting your house ready for photography and keeping it picked up for showings may seem stressful, but we like to tell clients to think of it as their preliminary move. This is the de-clutter stage where we really do try to purge those things we haven’t used in a while. Especially those boxes still in the attic that weren’t opened from the last time you moved! The important thing is to not let it stress you out, do what you can.
We have helped coordinate staging for clients and will walk the house with you to help where we can. We walk through a lot of homes and know what looks best, this is just one of the services we provide.
This list is extensive and was compiled from a handful of professional photographers’ recommendations and from our past experiences. This is not gospel, just a frame of reference, so don’t worry if you can’t do everything.
-Have the lawn mowed, leaves raked, bushes trimmed, flowers can add a pop
-Remove all vehicles from the driveway and front of the house.
-Make sure all garbage cans, hoses, garden tools etc. are put away.
-Be sure to check all outdoor lights and change dim or broken bulbs.
-Store children’s and pet’s yard toys out of sight.
-Open patio umbrellas and set out patio furniture cushion (cleaned).
-If in season, uncover grills, pools, spas, and hot tubs (cleaned).
-Place dogs in the dog run or garage (may need to move for some photography).
-Sidewalks, driveways, decks, and patios, etc., clear of plant debris and leaves
-Clean and dust very well.
-De-clutter – trying to minimize books, knick-knacks, toys, keepsakes, awards, family photos, kitchen items, off-season clothes (makes closets seem more spacious), etc.
– Potentially remove pieces that make a room feel tight or cramped.
-Make the beds.
-The countertops in the bathrooms and kitchen should be as clean and as empty as possible. Microwave and toaster ovens should be removed if on counter
-Make sure the kitchen sink is empty and all dishes are put away.
-Hide the trash cans.
-Minimize personal photos (we are fine with personal photos as long as they are not making a wall, counter or bookshelf feel cluttered or small)
-Replace any light bulbs that are out. Newer bulbs that are white-light or daylight are best for photos
-Remove any decorations or magnets that are on the fridge.
-Before the photographer arrives, turn on all lights and open all blinds in rooms to be photographed. Turn fans off
-Remove or hide any pet beds, water/food bowls, toys, litter boxes (and keep these clean for showing), etc.
-If there is a pool, take the security gate down, uncover, and clean. (more for photography than showings)
-Put all the toilet seats and lids down.
-If it is near any holiday, please plan with photography in mind. No matter what holiday, decorations in the photos date the home.
-Remove and secure valuables and medications.
-De-clutter and dust fireplace mantles.
-Minimize extra floor coverings – Area rugs are acceptable.
-Remove table coverings, but consider putting out place settings.
-If possible, confine the cat. For showings, to avoid problems with potential buyers and allergies; and for photography, because cats love to get in the pictures
-Empty the shower of shampoos, conditioners, body washes, scrubs, etc.
