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How can you help buyers picture your property as their future dream home? Follow the checklist below to eliminate clutter and prepare for a photo shoot with a professional real estate photographer from Beacon James. You’ll make a better first impression, attract more attention, and appeal to a wider audience with pictures featuring a spotless and stylishly decorated home.

General Tips for the Whole House
Thoroughly clean the entire home and store knick knacks and personal pieces so buyers can picture themselves there. Follow these steps in every room:

• Cut out clutter by stowing small items away
• Remove family photos for a more neutral decor
• Dust every surface
• Mop, sweep, and vacuum all floors
• Clean mirrors and windows to a spot-free shine
• Open blinds and curtains in each room to let in the natural light
• Turn ceiling fans off

Kitchen and Dining Areas
Clean off countertops to create a kitchen that invites buyers to dine. You want people to be able to picture preparing a meal for their friends and family, and here’s how:

• Stow small appliances to enhance counter space
• Scrub stains and fingerprints off the stove and fridge
• Keep personal items like magnets and family photos in a dedicated drawer during the shoot
• Straighten chairs and set the table (flowers make a great focal point for the centerpiece)

Bedrooms
Decorate a space to dream about. Follow these pointers to prepare a relaxing room  buyers will want to wake up in:

• Make all the beds and clean underneath them
• Put away shoes and clothes
• Check and change all light bulbs throughout the room
• Blinds and curtains should be left open to let in light and show off the view

Bathrooms
Give every bathroom a spa treatment. Go for the look and feel of a luxury hotel with this organization advice:

• Close toilet seats, closets, and cabinets
• Leave the shower curtain or door open to attract attention to tiling
• Clean all countertops of toiletries and trinkets

Lighting
Put your home in the best light. Use built-in bulbs to showcase the property’s best features and remember these helpful hints:

• Turn every interior and exterior light on, from table and floor lamps to overhead bulbs and ceiling fan lights
• Replace burned-out bulbs and dust off shades for a brighter display

Front and Back Yards
Create an outdoor oasis for kids, friends, pets, and family to spend time and unwind. Remove the sale sign prior to the shoot and enhance curb appeal by following this list:

• Mow the lawn and clean up clippings for a better exterior shot
• Take out trinkets and lawn ornaments
• Stash toys and pet supplies
• Organize equipment and hoses
• Move vehicles out of the frame and keep the garage door closed
• Pick up any garbage and store the cans until after the shoot
• Straighten deck furniture
• Sweep the driveway and deck and clean the pool area

Pets
Your pet is a part of the family but they don’t have a place in property photos. Keep your furry friend entertained during the shoot and don’t forget these easy steps:

• Put away all bowls, supplies, and toys
• Eliminate hair on upholstery, carpeting, and curtains
• Sweep and scrub floors

Thank you for booking your photo shoot with Beacon James. Our team provides a wide range of real estate photography services designed to put your property in the best light, and we look forward to working with you!