Lights, Camera, Curb Appeal: How to Prep Your Home for Listing Photos

In real estate, your first showing happens online. Great photos can mean the difference between a potential homebuyer scrolling past or a inbox full of showing requests. Here’s how to get your home photo-ready (and it’s easier than you think).

• Declutter like you’re moving tomorrow
  Counters should be clear of clutter, tables should be empty, open cabinets should be neat. Any blankets and clothing or shoes laying around should be stored away neatly in a closet. Remember, buyers need to be able to picture themselves in your house as their own—they don’t want all of your junk too.
  You’re going to pack it anyway!

• Let there be light
  Open blinds, swap out dim bulbs, and clean the windows. Natural light = irresistible listing photos.
  Another note on the bulbs, if your house has a medley of soft, white, and daylight then it can make for some interesting pictures—if you need a lighting guide just ask and I’ll send it to you!

• Clean with camera eyes
  Baseboards, glass, mirrors — these pop (or distract) in high-res images. The most overlooked items are vents and blinds, trust me you might overlook them but your buyers wont!

• Stage just enough
  Toss a throw blanket, fluff some pillows, and clear the fridge magnets. We’re aiming for HGTV-lite.
  I’m not saying to hire an interior decorator by any means, just keep it clean and neat.

• Exterior matters too
  Mow, sweep, and maybe add a potted plant or two. First impressions start at the sidewalk. Statistics show that curb appeal can impact price by as much as 20%, so we don’t want to overlook this aspect—especially in the months when grass and weeds are growing wild.

Our listings are photographed by pros, but the magic starts with your prep. Want a pre-listing checklist for your home? Just reach out and we’ll send it your way!