How to Prepare Your Property for a Perfect Real Estate or Airbnb Photoshoot
Making sure your property is camera-ready for a photoshoot is crucial whether you're hosting on Airbnb or listing your home for sale. Proper preparation can ensure the photos capture the best angles, light, and features of your property. Here’s a thorough checklist to help you get everything in order before the shoot.
Complete Checklist for Property Photoshoot Preparation
General Indoor Preparation:
Thoroughly clean the entire house (vacuum carpets, mop floors, dust surfaces).
Clean all windows for clear, bright photos.
Remove all clutter from surfaces (e.g., counters, tables, shelves).
Turn off all electronics (TVs, computers, ceiling fans).
Remove all personal photographs and personal items.
Put away any shoes, toys, and other distractions.
Open all blinds, shutters, and curtains to maximize natural light.
Create space in rooms by removing extra furniture.
Highlight the Property’s Best Features:
Identify and prepare standout features such as unique architecture, large windows, beautiful views, or outdoor spaces.
Ensure these highlights are cleaned, decluttered, and staged to maximize their visual impact.
Pets:
Remove any signs of pets (bowls, beds, litter boxes).
Keep pets out of the house during the shoot to avoid distractions or disruptions in the photos.
Exterior & Curb Appeal:
Close all garage doors.
Remove cars from driveways and avoid parking in front of the property.
Clean up landscaping (mow the lawn, trim shrubs, sweep paths, and clear leaves).
Remove cobwebs from exterior corners, door frames, and windows.
Store away hoses, sports equipment, toys, or lawn decorations.
Add pot plants or flowers to the front door area for a welcoming touch.
Kitchen:
Clear countertops and keep it clutter-free. Remove appliances except for one or two stylish items (e.g., coffee machine).
Ensure no old fruit is in bowls; replace with fresh citrus for a pop of color.
Remove everything from the fridge doors (magnets, artwork, flyers).
Hide garbage bins and ensure no dishes are left in the sink.
Close the dishwasher door.
Dining Table:
Clear the dining table completely.
Add a centerpiece such as a vase of fresh flowers or a decorative bowl.
Straighten all chairs and ensure they are evenly spaced around the table.
Remove high chairs or booster seats.
Living/Family Room:
Remove all clutter from shelves, mantels, and tables.
Hide remote controls, magazines, and any toys.
Plump up cushions and arrange them neatly on sofas.
Remove any visible kids’ toys or pet toys.
Dust and clean indoor plants, and remove any dead or dying leaves.
Consider adding a fresh indoor plant to enhance the space.
Bathroom:
Remove all personal items like toiletries, toothbrushes, deodorants, etc.
Ensure shower and bath areas are free from shampoo, soaps, and sponges.
Lower the toilet seat, place fresh towels, and perhaps add a small flowering plant or candle for a touch of luxury.
Close the shower curtain and ensure the bathroom looks clean and inviting.
Bedroom:
Make the bed neatly with fresh linens. Consider ironing bed sheets for a crisp look.
Remove personal items from bedside tables, leaving only a lamp, a small plant, or a few neatly stacked books.
Clean under the bed and remove anything that could show up in photos.
Remove any wall stickers or personal artwork from children’s rooms.
Tidy up bookshelves and minimize clutter.
Final Touches:
Before the photographer arrives, take a final walkthrough of the property, ensuring everything is in its place and looks just as inviting as it feels. These photos will set the first impression, so don’t hesitate to add a few extra touches, like fresh flowers, to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
By following this checklist, you’ll ensure your property is presented at its best, giving potential buyers or renters an irresistible glimpse of your home.