Preparing the Home
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Making a lasting first impression is critical to expediting the sale of your home or property. Marketing and presenting your residence in a “show ready” condition attracts buyer interest, dramatically increases the number of showings and ultimately leads to a faster closing. As a seller in today’s market, there are things you can do to help pave the way toward a successful sale. One of those things is to properly prepare your home for the photo session, which allows us to capture professional, elegant images that grab attention. This means the interior and exterior need to be staged and ready prior to the photographer’s arrival.
Follow these simple steps to get your home or property ready for the photo session and buyer showings should soon follow.
Duration of Appointment
Depending on the size of the property and the services provided, the amount of time the photographer is on site will vary. As a general rule, prepare for about an hour for photography only with other services adding a bit more time.
Keep in mind, photographers have to work around the weather (even in the desert!) and we may have to reschedule. Outside photography, videography and aerials can’t be done if it’s raining or too windy! Also, you will get the most out of the marketing process if the home/property is unoccupied during the shoot.
Get Ready, Get Set…
The photographer will be happy to walk through the home with you before they get started. However, they only will be able to make slight adjustments. Make sure all interior lights are on, blinds are open and ceiling fans are off in rooms that will be photographed. Please remove all cars from the driveway and do not park in front of the house.
In the event your home will not be “photo ready” before the scheduled time, please arrange for your photo session to be rescheduled by 5:00pm the day before your appointment.
Areas of Attention
Living Areas
Remove all clutter. This includes tissue boxes, remote controls and as many personal photos and items as possible. Floors should be swept and carpets vacuumed. Hide all children’s toys and portable cribs. Wipe down counters and put all small appliances in cabinets. Remove magnets and photos from the refrigerator; hide sponges and soap dispensers. Don’t forget to remove items from the top of the refrigerator and hide all throw rugs. Optionally, set the table with a full table setting.
Bedrooms
Make all beds and hide or organize children’s toys. All floors should be vacuumed or swept. Hide tissue boxes, personal items, excessive photos, remote controls, alarm clocks and phone chargers. Make sure all lamps have bulbs and are plugged in.
Bathrooms
Hide all toiletries, such as soap dispensers, toothbrushes, and cosmetics - even the items in the shower area. Wipe down counters and remove throw rugs. Have clean folded towels in their normal areas. Please make sure any visible areas are clean. Remember, if you can see it, so can the camera! Hide the bathroom scale.
Outside
Have lawn at a presentable level. Roll up hoses and have all outdoor furniture set up. Make sure trash cans are not visible (could be placed in garage or down the street temporarily).
Have a pool? Make sure the water is clean, hoses and other equipment (including toys) are hidden and any outside plants are healthy. If a twilight shoot is planned, double-check that all lights and water are in working order.
Thank you for your cooperation!