The best way to ensure a smooth experience with your photography or videography appointment is to have the property ‘shoot-ready’ prior to the scheduled appointment.  Typically that requires planning and coordination with the occupants to ensure that the house has been cleaned and de-cluttered or staged by a professional designer.  

Less is more in real estate marketing.  According to a survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors, Eighty-three percent of buyers’ agents said staging a home made it easier for a buyer to visualize the property as a future home.  Removing unnecessary decor, furniture, and personal items makes for a better virtual and in-person experience and will ultimately make for the best photo or video presentation.  

Here are Keen Eye Marketing’s suggested guidelines for property readiness.

Curb Appeal + Home Exterior 

• No cars in the driveway and walkways are clear of leaves and debris
• Lawn is freshly cut, leaves are raked, and plants are healthy and trimmed
• Yard is clear of toys, equipment, tools, hide garden hoses if possible
• Outdoor furniture is clean, uncovered, and thoughtfully arranged
• Pools are uncovered, clean, and skimmed of leaves and debris
• Pool cleaning tools, vacuums are removed and hidden
• Remove all signs: for sale, home security, etc. 

General Home Tips

• House has been deep cleaned, painted if necessary, and prepped for selling
• All light bulbs are working and match in color temperature or warmth
• Personal items, boxes, kids toys are hidden or stowed away 
• Pets are out of the home and no sign of dog beds, toys, water bowls, etc. 
• Turn fans OFF, all lights ON, and window blinds open for maximum brightness
• Turn all TVs and computer monitors off

Kitchen Preparation

• Declutter counter and remove unnecessary items
• Hide paper towel rolls, dish soaps, and extraneous cooking items
• Stowaway small appliances and cooking items 
• Straighten all chairs, barstools, and tables 

Bathroom Preparation

• Clear counters of toiletries, toothbrushes, and soaps 
• Remove all items from showers and tubs – no exceptions 
• Hang fresh towels, clean bath mats
• Clean mirrors and surfaces

Bedrooms 

• Make all beds, smooth duvet covers, and fluff pillows 
• Clear all personal items from nightstands and dressers
• Put away all clothing, shoes, and organize closets

Living Spaces

• Remove clutter from coffee tables and end tables
• Arrange and fluff pillows and cushions
• Hide TV remote controllers, magazines, and cup holders
• Open blinds and curtains

Thank you for helping us create the best photos and video possible for your property.   It can be a lot of work, but it’s worth it to get the best marketing, and ultimately top dollar at closing.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call or email.