Short Answer
Prepare your home for professional photography by cleaning thoroughly, decluttering every room, and depersonalizing by removing family photos and personal items. Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light. Turn on all lights. Remove cars from the driveway and trash cans from view. Make beds, put away dishes, and clear countertops. The photographer will capture the best version of your home, and your preparation makes a significant difference in the final images.
Professional photography is the most important marketing tool for your home. Homes with professional photos sell faster and for more money. To prepare, start with a deep clean of every room. Clean floors, windows, countertops, and fixtures. Declutter every surface. Remove excess furniture, personal items, and clutter from countertops, tables, and floors. Depersonalize by removing family photos, personal collections, and anything that makes the home feel like it belongs to someone else. Open all curtains and blinds to let in natural light. Turn on all lights, including lamps and under-cabinet lights, to brighten every room. Remove cars from the driveway and trash cans from view. Clear the yard of toys, tools, and debris. Make all beds with fresh linens. Put away dishes and clear kitchen counters. Remove pet bowls and litter boxes. The goal is to create a clean, bright, neutral space that appeals to the widest range of buyers. Your agent should provide specific guidance based on your home's unique features.
Bob's Advice
Redfin Senior Agent · AI Certified Agent
Professional photography is worth every penny. I include professional photography in every listing I take. But the photographer can only capture what is there. I will walk through your home with you before the photo shoot and give you a specific checklist of what to do. A few hours of preparation can make your home look like a model home in the photos. Let us make sure your home looks its absolute best for the photographer.
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