For your clients, getting their house ready for the photoshoot might evoke feelings of the whole family coming home for Christmas. It's exciting, but at the same time, the place should be picture-perfect. That can create pressure or even stress.

Let's help them navigate the process to be organized, happy, and stress-free. Of course, we can't promise presents or egg nog, but we can give them information to guide them every step of the way. 

As well as giving your clients beautiful photos of their property, I'm here to help you help your homeowner. 

The Formula

Years of experience have led me to the perfect formula. When you give this formula to your clients, they know what to do, feel positive they are in expert hands and prepare the home to shoot to its full potential. The final result is beautiful photos of the property that resonate with potential buyers. This formula makes everyone happy. 

It's Time To Shoot

Once this checklist is done, your client's property will have those home, sweet home vibes. This should be completed at least 15 minutes before the scheduled appointment, so the time is utilized, not on tasks like moving boxes around.

1: Replace any light bulbs that aren't working.

2: Clear counters, tables, and appliances of clutter, including things like fridge magnets, towels, and books. A few decorative items such as ornaments or plants are acceptable.

3: Remove rugs and runners from the kitchen, bathrooms, and hallways. Buyers want to see the floors, which makes rooms look more spacious.

4: Clear out showers, tubs, and bathroom counters.

5: Remove towels, shower mats, bottles, soap, toothbrushes, standing toilet paper holders, washing baskets, and wastebaskets for a minimalist look. 

6: Shower curtains should be open.

7: Add fresh flowers or fruit bowls to add a splash of color.

8: Hide power cords, remote controls, and other distracting elements easily moved.

9: If you have pets, remove all toys and bowls out of sight.

10: Outside, remove any distracting items from the front yard.

11: Remove toys, garden tools, and garbage bins.

12: Uncover outdoor furniture and barbecue grills.

13: Make sure the home is clean and tidy.

14. Turn all the lights on in every room.

15. Turn all the ceiling fans off.

16. Open all the blinds and curtains with the windows closed. 

17. Move vehicles out of the driveway.

18. Do a final check making sure all is perfect, right down to the pillows, flowers, and decorations being in the right place.

More Pro Tips To Give Clients

Hide items in closets, cabinets, under counters, and drawers as these areas aren't photographed. 

Put more oversized items in the garage. 

Use baskets and boxes that are easy to move. 

Throw out unwanted items since you are moving soon anyway.

The Competitive Edge

As a professional real estate photographer, I see each home as a unique canvas with features that can be highlighted to make it stand out from other listings. Using my creative eye, I maximize the potential of each property I photograph. When I arrive at a perfectly prepped home, I can make the most of my shooting time to get the best results. 

I work exclusively for VHT Studios. We agree that careful and thorough prep is key to a successful home photoshoot. We help real estate agents educate clients about getting their homes ready for photography and videography shooting and explain to them why it's so important. Homeowners often don't know how much first impressions count and how crucial photos motivate potential buyers to book an in-person inspection or ask for more information about a property.

Download preparation lists or agents and homeowners:

http://blog.vht.com/agents-photography-home-prep-tips/

Preparing your listings for a photo shoot is the first step in having a competitive edge over other houses for sale at your price point. Don't let average photos rule out your listing. You need engaging, outstanding images to elevate your business. 

The Right Photographer

The next part is to have a professional real estate photographer who professionally shoots your home with a dash of artistic flair. This is where I excel, with a unique talent that separates me from many other real estate photographers. My unique approach to real estate photography creates excellent value to the collection of images I produce for each property. 

As well to photos, I offer videos, 3d tours, and floor plans. These assets complement the photography and are highly recommended add-ons if you are looking to sell your home for the best price as soon as possible. 

So let's get that sold sign on the front lawn!