A well-prepared home can make a huge difference in how your property is perceived in photos. Whether it’s for a real estate listing, Airbnb, or a private sale, following this checklist will ensure that your home looks its best for the shoot.
1. Clean Every Room
- Thoroughly clean each room, including wiping down surfaces, vacuuming, and washing windows. Clean any rugs, mirrors, and appliances to remove dust or smudges.
2. Declutter the Entire Property
- Remove excess items from all rooms, including personal belongings and unnecessary décor. Use storage spaces or temporarily move items out of sight to create a more open, organised look.
3. Make Your Beds Neatly
- Ensure that all beds are made properly, with smooth sheets and plumped pillows. A neatly made bed instantly improves the overall look of your bedroom.
4. Check Light Bulbs
- Inspect all light fixtures and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Proper lighting helps create a bright and inviting space in photos.
5. Turn on All Lights
- Turn on all available lights in the house, including lamps, ceiling lights, and overhead fixtures. Proper lighting brightens up the space and creates a welcoming atmosphere.
6. Clean and Clear Counters
- Clear all kitchen and bathroom countertops of appliances, utensils, toiletries, and clutter. This will give a clean, spacious feel to the areas.
7. Clear Out the Bathroom
- Remove personal items like toothbrushes, toiletries, and any clutter from the bathroom. Place clean, neatly folded towels for a fresh and tidy look.
8. Remove Cars from the Driveway
- If possible, move any cars out of the driveway to ensure the exterior of the property is unobstructed. This helps create a cleaner, more open view.
9. Remove Trash Cans
- Remove all visible trash cans from both the interior and exterior of the property. This ensures that your space looks clean and organised in photos.
10. Open All Curtains and Blinds
- Open all curtains and blinds to allow natural light to flow in. Natural light makes spaces appear larger and brighter, contributing to better photos.
11. Straighten Furniture and Decor
- Arrange furniture neatly and ensure that decorative items, such as cushions, rugs, and plants, are well-positioned. Keep it simple—overly cluttered spaces can appear cramped.
12. Store Seasonal or Personal Decor
- Remove any seasonal or overly personalised décor that might distract from the property’s features. Neutral, simple decorations work best.
13. Check for Working Appliances
- Ensure that all appliances are working and in good condition, especially those visible in photos. If something is broken or outdated, consider hiding it for the shoot.
14. Hide Garden Hoses and Outdoor Clutter
- Store any garden hoses, tools, or outdoor clutter out of sight to maintain a tidy garden or yard area. A neat exterior adds to the overall appeal.
15. Landscape the Exterior
- Tidy the garden and yard by mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and removing any weeds. This makes the outside of the property look well-maintained and inviting.
16. Turn Off Ceiling Fans
- If your home has ceiling fans, turn them off before the shoot. Fans in motion can be distracting and can create an unsettling effect in photos.
17. Clean and Tidy Entrance Areas
- Ensure that the entryway or foyer is clean and welcoming. A tidy front door and hallway give a positive first impression of the property.
18. Consider the Season
- For seasonal properties, adjust decor to fit the current season. Ensure that any seasonal items like Christmas trees or Halloween decorations are removed if they’re not suitable for the photoshoot.
By following this detailed checklist, your home will be well-prepared and ready to shine in photographs, helping it make a strong impression on potential buyers, renters, or guests.