How do you prepare a house for real estate photos?
By Barry Cunningham, Charleston Media Group · Updated
Turn on every light, open the blinds evenly, clear kitchen and bathroom counters completely, move cars and trash cans out of sight, and keep people and pets out of the house during the shoot. Those five steps make the biggest difference; the rest of the checklist below covers each room.
If you only do five things
1. Every light on: lamps, under-cabinet, porch and exterior. 2. Blinds open evenly; ceiling fans and TVs off. 3. Kitchen and bath counters completely clear. 4. Cars, trash cans and hoses out of sight. 5. People and pets out of the house during the shoot.
Exterior, front, back and drone
Cars out of the driveway and off the street out front. Trash and recycling bins out of sight. Garage doors closed. Sweep walkways, porch and driveway. Put away toys, bikes, garden tools and hoses. Remove doormats and seasonal décor. Arrange outdoor furniture with cushions on. Pool cover off, water skimmed, equipment stowed. Boats, trailers and tarps moved or covered, because the drone sees everything.
Kitchen and dining
Clear counters completely, small appliances included. Clear the fridge door. Hide soaps, sponges, towels and cleaners. Empty the sink and put the drying rack away. Clear the dining table except for one simple centerpiece, and push chairs in evenly.
Living areas and bedrooms
Remove personal photos and visible clutter. Replace burned-out bulbs. Hide pet bowls, beds and litter boxes. Make beds, smooth comforters and arrange pillows. Clear nightstands and dressers. Clothes and shoes away, closet doors closed, nothing showing under the bed.
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