Preparing Your Home for Stunning Photos and Showings

First impressions matter, especially in the world of real estate. When you decide to sell your home, showcasing it in the best possible light becomes a top priority. Beautifully captured photos and organized showings can make all the difference in attracting potential buyers. To help you prepare, we have compiled a comprehensive checklist to ensure your home looks its absolute best. Let’s dive in and get your home ready!

Exteriors: The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers will see, so let’s make it welcoming and appealing.

• Garage Doors: Close the garage doors to create a clean and polished look.
• Driveway and Front: Remove cars from the driveway and front of the home for a clutter-free view.
• Landscaping: Clean up the landscaping by mowing, trimming, and raking to give it a well-maintained look.
• Water Hoses: Hide visible water hoses to maintain a neat and tidy exterior.
• Dog Waste: Clean up dog waste from the yard for a clean and hygienic environment.
• Dog Leashes: Remove dog leashes from sight to keep the focus on the property.
• Trash Bins: Put trash bins in the garage to keep the exterior clutter-free.
• Snow Removal: Clear snow from driveways, walks, and decks to present a well-kept appearance.
• Deck Furniture: Clean deck furniture and tidy cushions to create an inviting outdoor space.
• Pool: Clean the pool, remove the cover and hoses, and ensure it sparkles for a refreshing look.
• Toys and Clutter: Remove toys, dog toys, soccer goals, etc., to keep the exterior neat and organized.

Interiors: Now let’s move inside and prepare the interiors to impress potential buyers.

• Window Shades and Curtains: Open window shades and curtains to let in natural light and create an airy atmosphere.
• Lighting: Turn on all lights and replace burned bulbs for a well-lit and inviting space.
• Shoe Storage: Hide shoes from entries to keep the area clean and clutter-free.
• Windows: Clean windows to ensure they sparkle and allow natural light to flood the rooms.
• Fresh Flowers: Add a touch of elegance with fresh flowers, which can make a great impression.

Living/Family Room: Create a cozy and clutter-free living space for a welcoming ambiance.

• De-Clutter: Clear stacks of magazines, papers, and any unnecessary items.
• Mantle Decors: De-clutter the fireplace mantle for a clean and polished look.
• Furniture: Arrange furniture pillows neatly for a tidy appearance.
• Kid Toys: Remove kid toys to create a more sophisticated and appealing space.

Dining Room: Make the dining area feel inviting and ready for gatherings.

• Clear Table: Clear the table and dust it for a pristine appearance.
• Chairs: Straighten all chairs to create a well-organized dining setting.
• Booster Seats: Remove booster seats from the dining area to showcase the space fully.
• Table Setting: Stage the table with tableware and placements to add a touch of elegance.

Kitchen: The kitchen is a major selling point, so let’s make it shine.

• Clear Countertops: Completely clear countertops to show off the available workspace.
• Refrigerator: Clear off the refrigerator to keep it clutter-free and visually appealing.
• Garbage Cans: Hide garbage cans in a closet or pantry to maintain a clean and organized kitchen.
• Dishes: Put all dishes away to create a tidy and well-kept appearance.
• Sink Area: Remove rags and sponges from the sink area for a spotless look.
• Flooring: Remove scatter rugs to showcase the flooring and create a more open feel.

Bedrooms: Create a relaxing atmosphere in the bedrooms.

• Make Beds: Make the beds neatly, tucking in all sheets and straightening comforters.
• Nightstands: Clear nightstands of personal items and remotes for a clutter-free look.
• Charging Cables: Hide computer/phone charging cables to maintain a clean appearance.
• Dressers: Remove clutter from the tops of dressers for a polished and organized look.
• Under Bed: Clean under the bed and remove items that may show during the shoot or showings.
• Walls and Doors: Remove posters and stickers from walls and doors for a more neutral and appealing look.

Bathrooms: Clean and organized bathrooms leave a positive impression.

• Clear Countertops: Completely clear countertops for a clean and spacious appearance.
• Toilet Seats: Put toilet seats down to maintain a polished look.
• Cabinet Doors: Close cabinet doors to hide personal items and create a streamlined appearance.
• Showers and Bathtubs: Remove shampoo, soap, razors, etc., from showers and bathtubs for a tidy look.
• Towels: Leave out neatly arranged, clean, or new towels for a luxurious touch.
• Garbage Cans: Empty visible garbage cans to keep the bathroom clutter-free.
• Back of Doors: Remove towels and robes from the back of doors to create a more open space.

Pets: While we adore pets, it’s best to minimize their presence during showings:

• Pet Items: Remove food bowls, beds, litter boxes, and toys from the living areas.
• Pet Hair: Remove pet hair from furniture and other visible areas.

Great Hiding Spots: Lastly, consider utilizing these spots to hide personal items.

• Closets: Organize and declutter closets to create a spacious and organized look.
• Washers/Dryers: Keep washers and dryers clear of personal items for a clean and clutter-free laundry area.
• Cupboards and Pantries: Tidy up cupboards and pantries to create a more appealing kitchen space.
• Dishwasher: Ensure the dishwasher is clean and free of any visible items.
• Garages and Sheds: Organize and declutter garages and sheds to present a well-maintained storage area.

By following this checklist, your home will be beautifully presented for photos and showings, increasing its appeal to potential buyers. With a well-organized and inviting space, your property is sure to stand out in the competitive real estate market. Best of luck with your home sale!