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10 Proven Tips to Prepare Your Home for Stunning Real Estate Photos

In today’s digital world, first impressions happen online. With buyers scrolling through countless listings, a home with polished, professional photos stands out. At Picture This Property, we’ve seen firsthand how a well-prepared home can lead to faster sales and better offers. Here are 10 proven tips you can share with your clients to help their homes look their absolute best in photos.

Declutter Every Room

Clutter distracts buyers from seeing the home’s potential. Encourage homeowners to:

  • Remove personal items like family photos and excess décor.
  • Clear kitchen counters of small appliances and knick-knacks.
  • Store away unnecessary furniture to create a sense of space.

Deep Clean for a Fresh Look

A sparkling home conveys care and cleanliness. Suggest:

  • Professional carpet cleaning and dusting of hard-to-reach areas.
  • Shining windows and wiping down all surfaces to remove smudges.

Stage with Neutral Décor

Neutral tones make it easier for buyers to imagine themselves in the space. Advise:

  • Using light, neutral-colored throw pillows and bedding.
  • Adding simple décor like fresh flowers or greenery for warmth.

Highlight Curb Appeal

The exterior sets the tone. Homeowners should:

  • Mow the lawn, trim bushes, and sweep pathways.
  • Add potted plants or a fresh welcome mat to the entryway.

Optimize Lighting

Bright spaces feel more inviting. Recommend:

  • Opening all curtains and blinds to let in natural light.
  • Turning on every light in the home, including lamps and under-cabinet lighting.

Focus on Key Selling Points

Every home has standout features. Help clients identify and enhance them:

  • Arrange furniture to highlight large windows or a cozy fireplace.
  • Showcase remodeled kitchens or unique architectural details.

Prepare for Aerial/Drone Photography

For homes with outdoor features, drone shots are invaluable. Suggest:

  • Tidying up the yard and removing clutter like hoses or toys.
  • Parking vehicles away from the driveway to keep the view clear.

Set the Scene for Twilight Photos

Twilight shots create a luxurious, inviting feel. Instruct homeowners to:

  • Turn on all exterior lights, including landscape lighting.
  • Use warm-toned interior lights for a cozy glow visible from outside.

Remove Pets and Personal Signs of Life

While furry friends are beloved, they can detract from a buyer’s focus. Recommend:

  • Temporarily relocating pets during the photoshoot.
  • Hiding pet beds, toys, and food bowls.

Communicate with Your Photographer

Professional photographers like Picture This Property know how to capture the best angles, but client input helps. Encourage homeowners to:

  • Point out specific features they’d like highlighted.
  • Share any concerns or unique aspects of their property.

Real-Life Success Story

One of our recent clients in Cypress, followed these tips and saw remarkable results. Their home attracted double the number of showings and received an offer above asking price within a week. These simple steps work!


Download Our Pre-Photography Checklist

Here is a downloadable pre-photography checklist to give to your homeowner.

Helping your clients prepare their homes for professional photos not only makes your job easier but also shows your dedication to getting the best results. At Picture This Property, we’re here to partner with you to create listings that shine. Let’s make every property unforgettable.

Boost your property listings with stunning visuals—book your session today with Picture This Property! Together, we’ll make every home stand out in the Texas market.

Robert W

Owner of Picture This Property, a real estate media company based in Cypress, TX. Helping Realtors reach their goals in digital marketing.

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