How to Prepare for Photos when Selling Your Home

The majority of home buyers start their search online, so it is important to make the first impression count! Follow
these tips to prepare your home for the best real estate photos possible:
INTERIOR
• Replace all burned out light bulbs
• Use bulbs of the same temperature
• Turn all ceiling fans OFF
• Turn all TVs OFF
• Turn all computer screens OFF
• Open blinds/window treatments to let in outside light
• Remove small floor rugs to reveal actual flooring
• Place all shoes/jackets in closets

KITCHEN
• Clear countertops completely. No knife blocks, baking
supplies, mail, etc.
• Leave out max of one small appliance (ex. coffee maker)
• Clear outside of refrigerator of magnets, papers, photos, etc.
• Hide garbage cans in pantry or closet
• Remove dishes from sink, place in dishwasher
• Remove child seats/booster chairs

LIVING ROOM
• De-clutter fireplace mantel/hearth (no more than 5 items,
including art)
• Fluff and arrange furniture pillows
• Remove kid’s toys

PRIMARY BEDROOM
• Make bed, including decorative pillows/shams if available
• Press bed linens and bed skirts
• Clear nightstands of all personal items
• Store away phone/tablet charging cables
• Remove all clutter from top of dressers
• Clean under bed, removing items that may show in the photos

BATHROOMS
• Clear countertops completely. No soap, toothbrushes,
medications, deodorant, etc.
• Put toilet seats down
• Close closet doors
• Remove shampoo, soap, loofahs, etc. from showers and tubs
• Remove dirty towels – leave out only new, unused towels
• Remove floor mats
• Shower curtain outside of the tub

PETS
• Place food and water bowls in pantry or closet
• Place pet beds/toys in pantry or closet
• Use lint roller on furniture to remove pet hair
• Contain pets in hidden crate or outside
• Clear back yard of pet waste/toys

Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate (636)936-8600