When you’re selling or renting out a property, first impressions matter. One of the best ways to make a great impression is through high-quality photos. A professional photoshoot can help your property stand out and attract more buyers or tenants. To get the best photos, preparation is key. Here’s how to prepare your property for a real estate photoshoot, ensuring that it looks its best.
The first step to a great photoshoot is to make sure your property is clean and tidy. A messy home can make the space look smaller and less inviting. Clean all the common areas, such as the kitchen, living room, and bathrooms. Make sure the floors are swept and vacuumed, and wipe down surfaces like countertops and tables.
Decluttering is just as important. Remove any personal items like family photos, excess furniture, or items that don’t belong. The goal is to create a space that looks neat, organised, and ready for new owners or tenants.
Natural light can make a huge difference in property photos. Bright, airy spaces always look more appealing. On the day of the photoshoot, open all curtains and blinds to let as much light in as possible. If your property has large windows, position key furniture to make the most of the natural light.
If your home faces away from the sun or has small windows, try to schedule the photoshoot for the time of day when the light is best. Morning or late afternoon light often works well, as the sun is softer and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Staging is the process of arranging furniture and decor to make the space look more appealing. You don’t need to go overboard, but adding a few stylish touches can make a big difference. Place a few cushions or throws on the sofas to add warmth. Fresh flowers in vases can also brighten up a room.
Staging helps buyers or tenants imagine themselves living in the space. Keep it simple – a well-staged property will look inviting without feeling overcrowded.
If your property has an outdoor space, don’t forget to tidy up the garden or balcony. First impressions matter here too. Mow the lawn, trim any bushes, and sweep paths or driveways. Remove any outdoor clutter like toys or tools.
For smaller outdoor spaces like balconies, arrange the furniture neatly, and consider adding plants or flowers to bring colour to the area. A clean, organised outdoor space can make your property feel more desirable.
Before the photographer arrives, take care of any minor repairs that might be noticeable in photos. Leaky taps, broken tiles, or loose handles can distract from the overall look of the property. Even small issues can make a space look less well-maintained.
If you have time, consider touching up any chipped paint or fixing small dents in the walls. A well-maintained home will always look better in photos and help potential buyers or tenants feel more confident about the property.
Every room in the property should look its best. Focus on the key areas like the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms. Make sure each room is neat and well-arranged. In the living room, arrange the furniture so the space looks open and inviting. In the bedrooms, tidy up the beds and ensure there are no personal items lying around.
When arranging furniture, aim to create a feeling of space. A crowded room can look smaller, so try to keep it simple and uncluttered.
To make the photographer’s job easier, ensure that everything is in place before they arrive. If there are any cars parked outside, move them out of the shot. Clear the driveway or any spaces where the photographer might want to take photos.
It’s also important to be flexible with the timing. If possible, schedule the photoshoot for a time when the lighting is at its best. Photographers often work with natural light, so it’s helpful to give them the opportunity to get the best shots.
Preparing your property for a real estate photoshoot doesn’t have to be difficult. By cleaning, decluttering, staging, and organising your space, you can make sure your property looks its best. Don’t forget about the outdoors – a tidy garden or balcony can add to the overall appeal of your home. And with some minor repairs and a bit of planning, you can ensure that your photos will help attract more buyers or tenants. Good preparation can make a big difference, so take the time to make your property shine!