Selling your home is a big deal, and in today's competitive market, making a strong first impression is crucial. That's where professional real estate photography and videography come in. At Real Square, we're experts at capturing your home's best angles, but even the best equipment and an experienced eye need a little help from you.
Think of it like getting ready for a big job interview. You wouldn't show up in pajamas, right? The same goes for your home. Prepping your property before your Real Square photographer or videographer arrives is an essential step that can significantly impact how quickly and for how much your home sells.
You might be thinking, "Can't the photographer just move things around?" While we do make minor adjustments, our time on-site is best spent focusing on composition, lighting, and getting the perfect shots. Every minute we spend moving personal items or adjusting blinds is a minute not spent showcasing your home's unique features.
More importantly, a meticulously prepared home translates into:
- Better Photos, Faster Sales: Clean, clutter-free spaces photograph beautifully, allowing buyers to envision themselves living there. This leads to more interest, more showings, and ultimately, a quicker sale.
- Highlighting Your Home's Best Features: When distractions are removed, your home's architectural details, spacious rooms, and attractive finishes really shine.
- Professionalism Reflects on You: A well-presented home signals to potential buyers that the property has been well-maintained and cared for.
- Maximizing Natural Light: Proper preparation, especially with windows and blinds, ensures we can harness natural light, making your home look brighter and more inviting.
STEP 1 Natural light is a photographer's best friend. It makes rooms feel open, airy, and inviting.
Thin Blinds (mini-blinds, sheer blinds): Fully raise these blinds. We want to maximize the light pouring in and show off any views outside.
Thick Slitted Blinds (Venetian blinds): Don't raise these! Instead, use the tilt wand to open the slats completely so you can see through them. This lets in light while still showcasing the window treatment itself.
Curtains: Neatly pull back all curtains to frame the windows. Ensure they aren't obscuring the view or blocking light.
STEP 2 Bathrooms are often photographed, and a few small adjustments can make a big difference.
Toilet Seats: This is a simple one, but it makes a huge impact – always ensure all toilet seats are down.
Faucets: Check that all faucets are properly aligned and displayed. If you have two handles, make sure they are symmetrical.
STEP 3 This is perhaps the most critical step. The goal is to depersonalize and declutter so buyers can imagine their life in the home, not yours.
Garbage Cans: All garbage cans – kitchen, bathroom, office – must be moved out of sight. Stash them in a utility closet, the garage, or any room that won't be photographed.
Small Items, Big Impact: Remove anything small, personal, or distracting. This includes:
Refrigerator Magnets and Papers: Clear your fridge completely.
Personal Toiletries: No shampoo bottles, toothbrushes, or razors on bathroom countertops. Store them away.
Excess Decor: Less is more. Remove excessive knick-knacks, piles of magazines, or overly personal photographs from shelves and tables.
Pet Items: Put away all pet bowls, toys, beds, and crates.
Dirty Dishes/Drying Racks: Ensure your kitchen sink is empty, and there are no drying racks visible.
Cleaning Supplies: Hide all cleaning products.
Entryway Clutter: Remove excess shoes, coats, and bags from entryways and mudrooms.
By taking the time to follow these steps, you're not just preparing for a photo shoot; you're setting the stage for a successful sale. A little effort beforehand means we can capture truly breathtaking images that will make your listing stand out.
Ready to showcase your home in its best light? Book your professional real estate photography and videography session with us now!