I recently photographed a new model home for a local builder.  The home was beautifully staged and everything is brand new, so it got me real estate WILLIAM SCHUMANN PHOTOGRAPHY thinking about what the owner of a home can do to make their home that will soon be on the market look as good as a brand new home.  So with that here is a list of things to do before having a photographer, be it a professional or your real estate agent, come to your home.

1. De-clutter - The less stuff the better.  You don't want the house to be empty, but clean and uncluttered is much more appealing and less distracting in the final images.
2. Fresh paint - This isn't always necessary, but if you burn candles on a table next to the wall, have a child that is a little mischievous or have an affinity for extremely bright colored paint [think Nemo orange], you might want to consider a nice fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a room.
3. Dust - That ceiling fan, pot rack, I just noticed mine, refrigerator door, kitchen counter and even your floors all accumulate dust, smudges and other unsightly things.  You're probably thinking, "that stuff doesn't show up?"  I'm here to tell you that sometimes it does.  With the high-resolution digital cameras that are on the market today extreme detail can be seen.  Take the time and do a good "spring cleaning" you never know if your couch or chair is going to be moved a bit to make the living room look as big and appealing as possible.
4. Mow the lawn - Take care of all of the outdoor chores.  Cut the grass, prune the hedges, pull the weeds, etc.
5. Make the beds - You probably don't want someone else making your bed and hiding your laundry, so make sure that everything is put away or hidden for picture day.
6. Clean the bathroom - Need I say more?
7. Plants, vases, books, etc. - Sometimes it is helpful to have props that fit the character of the home.  If you have them available, it's always a plus.  They may or may not be used, but sometimes a shelf or table just needs a little something.

​I realize that you will do much of this when getting ready to list your home, but these tips are just good to keep in mind.  Oh, and if you are moving out before you actually sell the home, if at all possible have the pictures taken before you move all of your stuff out.  Empty rooms aren't nearly as appealing to a buyer as a nicely staged room.

To learn more or set up an appointment to have your home photographed, contact Bill Schumann | 906.250.2484 | [email protected].