Preparing Your Property for Photo Day: A Seller's Guide
First impressions matter, and when it comes to selling your home, professional photography plays a crucial role in attracting potential buyers. Preparing your property for photo day is all about presenting a clean, bright, and inviting space that showcases its best features. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your home looks its absolute best in listing photos.
Declutter Room by Room
One of the best ways to prepare is to go through each room with a basket or tub, removing any unnecessary items. The saying goes, “less is more,” and this holds especially true for real estate photography. A clutter-free home looks more spacious, tidy, and appealing to buyers.
General Tips:
- Remove personal items such as photos, paperwork, and children’s toys.
- Keep décor simple and neutral to appeal to a broader audience.
- Open all windows to let in natural light and create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
Kitchen: Keep it Simple and Spotless
The kitchen is a key selling point in any home, so it should be showcased in the best possible light.
- Clear all benches and remove excess appliances and utensils.
- Take down fridge magnets, notices, and calendars to avoid time-stamping the photos.
- Add a feature piece like a bowl of fresh fruit or a stylish plant for a touch of vibrancy.
Living Areas: Balance Between Homely and Minimalist
Buyers need to envision themselves living in the space, so a welcoming yet neutral aesthetic is essential.
- Remove personal photographs and replace them with neutral artwork.
- Ensure all surfaces are free from clutter.
- Fluff up cushions and neatly arrange furniture to create an inviting space.
Bedrooms: Neutral and Relaxing
Bedrooms should feel like a peaceful retreat.
- Use plain or white bedspreads—neutral colours are the safest choice.
- Clear bedside tables, leaving only a lamp or a small decorative item.
- Ensure wardrobes are closed and no personal items are visible.
Bathrooms: Fresh and Spa-Like
A clean, fresh bathroom is always a strong selling point.
- Remove personal toiletries, keeping only a neatly folded towel and perhaps a small plant or candle.
- Clean mirrors, sinks, and shower screens to avoid streaks and marks.
- Close the toilet lid and remove any visible bins or cleaning supplies.
Outdoor Areas: Tidy and Inviting
Your home’s exterior is just as important as the interior, so give it the same attention.
- Clean up leaf litter and spray any weeds in advance.
- Add a fresh layer of mulch to garden beds for a polished look.
- Remove washing from the clothesline and tuck away bins out of sight.
- Move vehicles from driveways and garages to the street to showcase the full property.
Final Photo Day Checklist
- Ensure all lights/lamps are working and turned on for extra brightness.
- Open blinds and curtains to maximise natural light.
- Check that floors are clean and surfaces are dust-free.
- Hide everyday items like remotes, tissue boxes, and pet bowls.
- Step outside and view your home as a buyer would—make any last-minute adjustments.
By following these simple yet effective steps, your home will be presented in the best possible way for potential buyers. The key is to create a welcoming space that feels aspirational yet attainable.
Reach out to our experienced sales team at MIX Property Group, we are here to guide you through the complete sales process and can offer free pre-sales advice.
Happy selling!