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Seller Guides | Photography Prep Guide

Preparing Your Home For Photography

After photographing numerous homes for sale, I've put together this guide to help you make the best possible impression of your property. First impressions matter, especially in real estate. Please use the checklist below to prepare your home for an optimal presentation and photoshoot.

GENERAL AREA

  • Clear away as much clutter as possible and store excess items in the garage.
  • Replace any burnt-out light bulbs and ensure the color temperature matches in fixtures with multiple bulbs.
  • Clean all windows, both inside and out.
  • Remove or conceal personal items such as family photos, paperwork, and bills.
  • Tidy up and hide any visible power cords and cables.
  • Vacuum carpets and rugs, and sweep all hard surfaces.
  • Keep tables and surfaces in every room free of excess items.
  • Dust and clean ceiling fans.
  • Remove any seasonal decorations.

LIVING AREA

  • Store all remotes out of sight.
  • Fold blankets and fluff the pillows on the couch.
  • Tidy up or remove any toys, fans, or game consoles.
  • Organize DVDs, games, and books neatly on shelves.
  • Clear away any stacks of magazines, paper, or mail.

KITCHEN AREA

  • Put away all dishes, cutlery, and food items.
  • Remove any large or bulky countertop appliances.
  • Clean the backsplash and range hood, paying special attention to stainless steel surfaces.
  • Clear the sink and hide all detergents, dishcloths, scrub brushes, and drying racks.
  • Remove any items from the exterior of the refrigerator, such as pictures and magnets.
  • Take away pet bowls.

DINING AREA

  • Straighten the dining chairs around the table.
  • Add a small centerpiece or vase of flowers (avoid anything too large).
  • Place settings are optional.

BEDROOMS

  • Make the beds, pulling the covers tight and smoothing them out.
  • Arrange and fluff pillows neatly.
  • Remove toys, books, games, and tissue boxes.
  • Clear all personal items from view.
  • Ensure bedside lamps are in working order.
  • Remove any clothes and hampers from the room.

BATHROOMS

  • Clean the tub and shower area, removing soaps, shampoos, razors, etc.
  • Clear the counters of all toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, hair dryers, and other personal items.
  • Ensure glass surfaces and mirrors are spotless.
  • Remove any non-matching towels.
  • Check that the toilet paper roll isn’t empty.
  • Hide waste baskets and toilet cleaning items (plunger, brushes, etc.).

OUTDOOR AREAS

  • Mow the lawn and trim the hedges.
  • Rake leaves and sweep walkways and the driveway.
  • Remove all gardening tools, including hoses, rakes, and wheelbarrows.
  • Remove weeds from any visible or prominent areas.
  • Straighten and arrange patio or deck furniture.

POOLS AND SPAS

  • Ensure the pool is clean and uncovered.
  • Remove all pool cleaners and poles.
  • Take away any pool toys.
  • Remove the spa cover.

BEFORE PHOTOSHOOT

  • Close all windows.
  • Open all window and door shades/blinds. For louvre blinds, turn the blades horizontally.
  • Turn on all interior lights.
  • Turn on all exterior lights, except for spotlights.
  • Turn off ceiling fans.
  • Turn off TVs and computer screens.
  • Ensure all pets are out of sight. While I am pet-friendly, no animals should be visible in the photos.
  • Close all toilet lids.
  • Remove any vehicles from the driveway and in front of the home.
  • Hide trash cans from street view. 

Your home should be fully prepared for the photoshoot when I arrive. Expect the photo session to take approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours. If video is also included, please allow an additional hour. I hold myself to a high standard in producing the best possible presentation for each listing. To ensure efficiency, my focus will be on capturing a curated selection of photos that best showcase your home for sale.

Why Photography Matters?

First Impressions Matter

Photography is often the first introduction potential buyers have to a home. In today’s digital age, most homebuyers start their search online, scrolling through listings and evaluating properties based on their photos. High-quality, well-lit images can immediately grab attention, making your home stand out in a crowded market. Poor or low-quality photos, on the other hand, can turn buyers away before they even schedule a showing. In real estate, a great first impression can make all the difference in attracting interest and driving viewings.

Showcasing Your Home’s Best Features

Professional photographers are skilled at highlighting a home’s most appealing attributes. Whether it’s a spacious living room, a modern kitchen, or a beautifully landscaped backyard, photography can accentuate the best features and downplay any less desirable aspects. Through careful composition, lighting, and angles, a photographer can tell the story of the home in a way that allows potential buyers to imagine themselves living there. Well-executed images help potential buyers visualize the space and create an emotional connection to the property.

Building Trust and Credibility

Homes that are presented with professional photography convey a sense of care and professionalism. Listings with high-quality images suggest that the seller is serious about presenting their home in the best possible light, which builds trust with prospective buyers. In contrast, poorly presented photos can create the impression that the seller might be hiding something or not invested in the process. In a competitive market, trust and credibility can play a significant role in attracting offers and negotiating a successful sale.

Increasing Online Engagement and Speed of Sale

The majority of homebuyers today begin their search online. Listings with high-quality, captivating photos are more likely to be clicked on, shared, and saved, leading to increased exposure and interest. Homes with professional photos tend to spend less time on the market because they capture more attention and drive more viewings. A well-executed photo shoot can also lead to better marketing opportunities, as these images are often used across multiple platforms, from MLS listings to social media and print materials. By increasing your home’s visibility, professional photography can help ensure a quicker sale at a potentially higher price.

ABOUT BLUMENFELD GROUP

At Blumenfeld Group we understand that a home is not merely a residence, but a reflection of the homeowner's vision and lifestyle. The Blumenfeld Group is committed to leveraging our knowledge and experience, catering to first-time homebuyers and seasoned investors alike, to match each unique property with the perfect buyer. Our team of specialists possesses deep insight into architecture, design, and innovative marketing strategies, allowing us to reveal the true value of your home.

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