Getting Ready for the Photographer
Here is a detailed checklist for preparing the home for photographs and introduction to the Market. Feel free to message me for a PDF copy of this list:
Front Exterior
o Close garage doors
o Remove cars from driveway and front of home
o Clean up landscaping (mow, trim bushes, rake leaves)
o Remove visible water hoses
o Clean up dog waste
o Remove dog leashes
o Remove toys, dog toys, sports balls, basketball hoops, soccer goals, etc.
o Wash windows if dirty
o Put trash bins in garage
o Clear snow and ice from driveways, walks, and decks
Backyard
o Clean deck furniture
o Tidy up chairs and cushions
o Clean pool
o Clean up dog waste
o Remove toys, dog toys, sports balls, basketball hoops, soccer goals, etc.
o Remove trash cans
All Interior
o Open all window shades
o Turn all lights on
o Remove shoes from entrance (place in closet)
Kitchen
o Clear counter-tops completely. No knife blocks, baking supplies, silverware, mail, etc.
o Clear refrigerator of magnets, papers, photos, etc.
o Hide garbage cans in closet or pantry
o Remove dishes from sink, put in dishwasher
o Remove rags and sponges from sink
Dining Room
o Clear table, dust tabletop
o Straighten all chairs
o Remove booster seats
Living/Family Room
o Remove stacks of magazines, books, papers, mail, etc.
o Declutter fireplace mantle
o Arrange furniture pillows neatly
o Remove kid’s toys
Master Bedroom
o Make bed
o Tuck in all sheets and comforters
o Clear nightstands of personal items
o Remove computer/phone charging cables
o Remove clutter from tops of dressers
o Clean under bed, remove items that may show up in photos
Child/Guest Bedrooms
o Remove posters/stickers etc. from walls
o Make bed
o Tuck in all sheets/comforters
o Clean under bed, remove items that may show up in photos
Bathrooms
o Clear all personal items from view
o Clear counter-tops completely (no soap, toothbrushes, etc.)
o Put toilet seats down
o Close cabinet doors
o Remove shampoo, soap, razors, etc. from showers and bathtubs
o Leave out neatly arranged, clean towels (optional)
o Empty visible garbage cans
o Remove towels from back of doors
Pets
o As much as we love pets, there should be no evidence of them in your home
o Place food and water bowls out of view
o Place pet beds or toys out of view
o Remove pet hair furniture
You only get one chance to make a first impression. The more you can check off here, will directly impact your sale price!
