We’ve all been on Zillow to look at homes for sale, and the very first thing we do is look at the photos. If they’re inviting, we click for more information. If not, we keep moving. It’s a little bit like the whole “swipe left, swipe right” thing on dating sites. Swipe right if you like what you see, and swipe left if you don’t. Might seem shallow, but it’s how we initially process things as humans. Some property photos are blurry, crooked, or too dark, and were obviously taken by an amateur. That’s not the way we do it. We hire a professional photographer who has the latest equipment to get the job done right. Look at the kitchen photo. That’s from one of our listings. Compare it with the one where the agent’s reflection is seen in the mirror. The difference that high-quality photos make when selling your home is astonishing!
Professional Photography
WILL MAKE YOUR HOME STAND OUT
Why it matters
Preparing for the photo shoot
Before the Photographer Arrives
Please keep in mind that the photographer schedules multiple photo shoots per day. For that reason, it is IMPERATIVE that the home be ready BEFORE he/she arrives. Also, for liability reasons, the photographer is not allowed to help arrange personal items, move furniture, or assist in cleaning and de-cluttering the home.
Interiors (Deep-Cleaning and De-Cluttering)
1. Spotlessly clean your entire house from top to bottom, and fix anything that is broken or in disrepair
2. Remove/Replace/Repaint anything that is too “taste-specific”
3. Put valuables and medications out of sight or locked up
4. Clean all windows; Open all window coverings (unless they conceal a less-than-desirable view)
5. Turn ON all lights; turn ceiling fans OFF
6. Replace all missing or burned out light bulbs (including kitchen fluorescents and recessed lighting)
7. De-clutter your fireplace mantel
8. Remove most, if not all personal/family photos (especially large portraits over fireplaces or in main living areas); Replace with neutral art if possible
9. Remove ALL throw rugs and mats
10. Make all beds neatly, and put as many kids’ toys away as possible (perhaps hide them in closet)
11. Remove everything from refrigerator exterior (all notes, pictures, kids’ art, magnets, etc.)
12. Remove or conceal all garbage containers throughout the house
13. Clear kitchen countertops. Leave a maximum of three items per countertop area
14. Clear the bathroom countertops of everything (except floral/plant arrangement or decorative items)
15. Hang your best matching towels; Place all toilet lids in down position
16/ Remove all soap, shampoos, conditioners, shaving items, toothpaste, etc.
17. Remove all signs of pets (bowls, rugs, pillows, litter boxes, etc.) You may leave them in garage or dog run
Exteriors
1. Place potted plant at front door; Remove trash cans, gardening tools, etc. from sight
2. Remove all childrens’ and pets’ toys from yard and neatly coil all garden hoses
3. Park all vehicles across the street (not in driveway, and not in front of home)
4. Open patio umbrellas and set out cushions
5. Uncover barbecues, pools, and spas
