Summary
The article provides a step-by-step guide on how to prepare a property for a professional photoshoot. The core advice is to thoroughly declutter and depersonalise the space to make rooms appear larger and help buyers envision themselves living there.
Key points covered include:
Maximising light by cleaning windows and turning on all lamps.
A room-by-room checklist with specific tasks for the kitchen, living areas, bedrooms, and bathrooms.
The importance of tidying the exterior and garden to create good curb appeal.
Adding small finishing touches, like fresh flowers, to sell an attractive lifestyle, not just a building.
Picture Perfect: Your Guide to Preparing a Property for Photography
First impressions are everything, especially when selling your home. Professional photographs are often the first thing potential buyers will see, so it’s crucial to make sure your property looks its absolute best. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to prepare your home for its close-up, ensuring it looks spacious, inviting, and ready to sell.
The Golden Rule: Declutter, Declutter, Declutter!
The single most important piece of advice is to declutter. A clutter-free home appears larger, cleaner, and allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there.
- Remove Personal Items: This includes family photos, personal mail, and any other items that make the space feel too “lived in.”
- Clear Surfaces: Kitchen counters, coffee tables, and bedside tables should be as clear as possible.
- Close cupboards: close cupboards, fridges, drawers—any interiors you do not want photographed.
- Reduce Furniture: While you don’t want the space to look empty, removing excess furniture can make rooms feel more open and spacious.
- Don’t Over-style: if the plant is not supposed to be in the doorway, remove it. Less is more. As photos can look bare, so, too, can they look stuffed.
Let There Be Light: Windows and Lighting
Good lighting is key to great photos. Maximize the natural light in your home and supplement it with artificial lighting where needed.
- Clean Windows: Make sure your windows are sparkling clean, both inside and out. This will let in as much natural light as possible.
- Open Curtains and Blinds: Open all curtains and blinds to make the space feel bright and airy.
- Turn on All Lights: Even during the day, having all the lights on can help to brighten up any dark corners and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Room-by-Room Breakdown
Each room has its own unique needs when it comes to photography preparation. Here’s a checklist for each area of your home:
Kitchen
- Clear all surfaces: This includes the countertops, the top of the fridge, and any open shelving.
- Hide the essentials: Put away washing up liquid, cloths, and bins.
- Remove clutter: Clear away any items on top of the fridge or cupboards, as this can suggest a lack of storage space.
Living Areas
- Set the scene: A beautifully set dining table can look great in photos, but a simple vase of flowers is also a good option.
- Hide the wires: Tidy away any visible cables from TVs, lamps, and other electronics.
- Plump the cushions: Arrange cushions neatly on sofas and armchairs.
Bedrooms
- Make the beds: Use fresh, ironed linen to make the beds look neat and inviting.
- Clear the clutter: Remove any clothes, books, or other personal items from view.
Bathrooms
- Hide toiletries: Put away all toiletries, including toothbrushes, shampoo, and soap.
- Remove laundry: Make sure the laundry basket is out of sight.
- Close the lid: The toilet lid should always be down for photos.
Don’t Forget the Exterior
The front of your house is the first thing potential buyers will see, so make sure it looks its best.
- Tidy up: Sweep the path and road, and remove any weeds.
- Add some life: A few potted plants by the front door can make a big difference.
- Don’t neglect the back: Tidy up the back garden and arrange any garden furniture to showcase a desirable lifestyle.
The Finishing Touches: Selling a Lifestyle
Remember, you’re not just selling a house; you’re selling a lifestyle. Small touches can make a big impact.
- Fresh flowers: A vase of fresh flowers can add a pop of color and a touch of elegance to any room.
- Houseplants: A few healthy-looking houseplants can make a space feel more alive.
- Set a scene: In the garden, you could set up a table with a couple of wine glasses to help potential buyers imagine themselves relaxing there.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your property is ready for its close-up and that your photos will attract the attention of potential buyers. Good luck!