It's no secret that great photos of your property are a main reason prospective buyers come to see it in person. People often make their decision to visit a home after seeing just a few photos on MLS. Homes look most inviting to buyers when they are clean and modestly staged. Please prepare your property for your photo shoot using the following tips and checklist before your scheduled appointment. 


This list was created in collaboration with local realtor and ReMax agent, Michael Hottman.

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Checklist for Real Estate Photos

Interior Checklist

Lighting:

• Turn on all interior lights and replace bulbs if needed. Each fixture should have bulbs of same wattage and coating.
  
• Lower blinds all the way and keep them slightly open and angled up.
  
• Close translucent curtains, open opaque curtains.
  

Cleaning:

• Vacuum carpets and clean floors. Remove door mats and area rugs that are not major decorative components.
• Clean all shiny surfaces, including windows, mirrors, glass doors, or glossy furniture. They should be streak free.
  
• Dust all surfaces including tv and computer screens. Use microfiber cloths to get rid of the tiniest particles.
• Clean countertops and sinks in bathroom and kitchen. 
• Clean all vents (return and supply) and all fan blades.
• Clean all light globes - focus on removing dead bugs and fingerprints left behind.

Staging:

• Appeal to the buyer. Remove personal photos to help potential buyers visualize themselves in your home.
• Turn off moving objects such as ceiling fans.  Turn off tv's and computer monitors too!
• Make beds and smooth out bedding. Use thick pillows with accent pillows.
• Remove all items from kitchen and bathroom countertops, and sinks. Seriously, hide everything!
• Remove all items on your refrigerator.
• Place a bowl of fruit in the kitchen to add color.
  
• Have fresh cut flowers as an accent in the living area. These can be re-used in other photos throughout the home.
  
• De-clutter all areas, keeping only the most basic and important elements.
  
• Touch-up paint and match it as closely as possible. 

Exterior Checklist

Cleaning & Yard Work:

• Clean or sweep the driveway, sidewalk, patio and deck areas.
• Mow the yard and remove all debris.
• Trim bushes, trees, and plants to make sure there is a clear view of the house.
• Use landscaping and flowers to increase curb appeal. 
• Pull weeds and stray grasses. A thin layer of fresh mulch can make a world of difference.

Staging:

• Move cars away from the home. The garage, driveway and curb should be free from cars.
• De-clutter by placing items in cabinets or boxes. Move cars out of the garage.
• Raise patio umbrellas and uncover grills.
• Hide trash cans and other lawn and garden tools or have them neatly organized.
• Close all windows and keep blinds at the same height. Curtains should be open.