- Declutter!!! A busy home does not photograph well. Remove as much clutter as possible. This includes: knick-knacks on the selves/mantel, photo frames on the bed stand, remote controls. etc.
- Remove items that are too personal to appeal to the general public. Examples are: art work that may be offensive to some, the beat up quilt you’ve had since you were a kid, etc.
- Replace any burnt out light bulbs. It will make the photo shoot better and will show better when buyers come in.
Exterior
- Park the car a few houses down.
- Hide trash cans and recycling bins.
- Mow the lawn the day before and blow off the driveway
- Remove everything else. Example: garden hoses, kids toys, movable basketball goal
Living Room and Family Rooms
- De-Clutter!
- Remove news papers and magazines or arrange them neatly.
- Hide all remote controls
- Hide cable as much a possible
- Remove family photos. You may have the best looking family, but they don’t come with the house.
Kitchen
- If it doesn’t belong, it has to go
- Remove excessive appliances from the counter.
- Some appliances like a high end coffee maker or knife set are usually fine to keep. Just keep in mind that if it looks cluttered, it has to go.
- Remove everything from the refrigerator door. Magnets and notes will clutter the shot very quickly
- Remove utility rugs so you can see a part of floor (if it’s a nice floor)
Dining Room
- Tables are symmetrical, so make sure everything has been straightened.
- Setting the table with your best dinnerware adds a nice touch
- A proportional sized center piece looks good too.
Bedrooms
- Beds should be neatly made.
- All clothing/shoes should be out of site.
- Remove clutter from nightstands. Note: a book and glasses on the nightstand can add a nice touch.
Bathrooms
- Clear counter tops and remove all toiletries.
- Toilet lids should be closed
- Clean the mirrors
Pool and Backyard
- The pool needs to be clean and free of leaves
- Remove all pool floats/toys
- Patio/pool furniture should be straightened.