How-To Guide for Sellers: Prep Your Home for Listing Photos
20 Ways To Prep Your Home For Listing Photos!
So you've decided to take the plunge and sell your home! What's next? While there are many steps involved in the listing process, the photo shoot is among the first and most important. To start, hiring a pro makes all of the difference! These days, the majority of buyers shop for their next home online. That is where having sharp, polished images becomes key in attracting buyers and sets you apart from other listings. If you're looking for some tips on how to prep your home for listing photos, then please read on.
Interior
- Thoroughly clean home – Vacuum, Mop, Dust, Wipe Windows/Counters
- Ensure ceiling fans, TV’s, and computer screens are off
- Make all beds
- Turn lights and lamps on (Replace any burnt out bulbs)
- Remove any rugs so floors are bare
- Move all miscellaneous items (Shoes, Jackets, Remotes, Blankets, Pet Items) out of sight into a closet or storage bin
- Open window coverings to allow natural light
- Declutter and organize all rooms and living spaces
- Fix any major eye sores that may show up in the photos – Patch drywall damage, paint over noticeable stains or scuff marks, etc.
- Be sure to remove any seasonal decor as this will date the photos
- Remove magnets and decor from the refrigerator
- Put toilet seats and lids down
Moving on to the outside of the home, think curb appeal! From a marketing standpoint, the exterior shot of the home is crucial! Agents often use the front of the home as the main picture. Thus, this will be the photo that buyers see first, so you'll want to make sure it is as appealing as possible.
Exterior
- Clear spider webs from eaves, windows, and doors
- Remove trash cans from view
- Tidy outdoor spaces like decks/patios/porches
- Close garage doors
- Move vehicles from the driveway and away from the front of the home
L a n d s c a p e
It is easy to become hyper focused on the interior of the home and forget all about the yard. Well, take care not to make that mistake, as the landscaping of a home really makes the exterior photos pop. With that said, the neater the better!
- Clear away all kids/pet toys and any miscellaneous items from the lawn
- Clear away leaves, weed where needed, mow the lawn, and trim any hedges, trees, or bushes (Especially during Summer and Spring)
- Tidy or remove all visible hoses
There you have it! 20 tips on how to prep your home for listing photos. These tips combined with a professional photographer's skill will help your home stand out among others and sell quicker. If you have any questions regarding this topic or the listing process as a whole, please reach out to our team as we are more than happy to help!
Sarah Robbins and Associates
253-470-8163
33434 8th Ave S
Federal Way WA 98003
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