In the realm of real estate, an image can hold immense value, potentially translating into thousands of dollars in your pocket. Presenting a clean and well-kept home can result in captivating photos and videos, attracting more potential buyers and maximizing your earnings. While it may entail some effort, view it as a worthwhile investment in your property’s marketability.
Here’s a comprehensive list of cleaning and preparation tips to ensure your property shines in every photograph and video:
General Tips for Every Room:
- Clean windows and all reflective or glass surfaces.
- Replace all burned-out light bulbs with the same color bulbs.
- Remove cobwebs from wall and ceiling corners.
- Fix, straighten, and open blinds and shutters to emphasize natural light and outdoor views.
- Ensure cabinet doors and dresser drawers close securely.
- Check that framed artwork and mirrors are hanging level.
- Remove any small rugs in poor condition.
- Thoroughly vacuum rugs and mop and sweep floors.
Kitchen and Dining Areas:
- Wipe down countertops.
- Remove magnets, artwork, and photos from the refrigerator.
- Clear the top of the refrigerator of any items.
- Store unnecessary appliances, dish racks, etc., out of sight.
- Ensure towels are clean and neatly folded.
- Clean the stovetop and put away pots and pans.
- Organize visible hanging kitchen utensils neatly.
- Empty the sink, stowing all dishes and sponges.
- Conceal calendars, mail, phone chargers, etc.
- Move paper towels, trash cans, and pet dishes out of view.
- Remove booster seats from dining room chairs.
Living and Family Rooms:
- Remove any visible pet toys, beds, food dishes, etc.
- Hide TV remotes and game controllers.
- Conceal exposed A/V or electrical cables, if possible.
- Straighten and organize books and DVDs on bookshelves.
- Place fresh, unburned logs in the fireplace, if applicable.
- Organize or remove pillows and blankets from couches and chairs.
- Eliminate any unnecessary furniture or exercise equipment to avoid making rooms appear smaller in photos.
Office/Den:
- Clear as much as possible from desktop areas.
- Neatly organize any paperwork or items that can’t be removed.
- Organize or conceal computer cables under or around the desk.
- Straighten and organize items on bookshelves.
- Hide trash cans and shredders from view.
Bedrooms:
- Make beds and ensure all loose sheets are tucked in.
- Hide any items under the bed from view.
- Remove as much as possible from dressers and bedside tables.
- Ensure frames, posters, etc., are level.
- Consider removing children’s names from the walls, if feasible.
- Remove excessive stuffed animals and arrange or conceal children’s toys.
- Move laundry baskets out of sight.
- Remove any temporary fans or space heaters.
Bathrooms:
- Ensure towels are clean and neatly folded.
- Remove used shower towels.
- Conceal toothbrushes and other items from the countertop.
- Clean all spots and streaks from the mirror.
- Consider placing a small potted flower on the counter, if possible.
- Move plunger, cleaning supplies, air fresheners, etc., out of view.
- Hide shower supplies from sight.
- Move trash cans and diaper disposal units out of view.
Exterior – Front and Back Yards:
- Be prepared to move any cars or trailers from the driveway.
- Conceal garbage cans from the view of the street.
- Add colorful flowers near the front door, patios, and walkways.
- Move pet toys, crates, beds, dishes, etc., out of sight.
- Remove shoes, kids’ toys, and sporting equipment from view.
- Neatly coil or remove hoses and temporary sprinklers.
- Arrange patio furniture and BBQ equipment neatly.
- Trim and remove dead or discolored branches and leaves.
- Clear leaves from the pool, walkways, and patio areas.
- Remove the pool sweep before the appointment, if feasible.
- Eliminate temporary fences around the pool, if possible.
- Turn on the waterfall ahead of time and clean leaves from the pool.
By meticulously following these cleaning and preparation tips, you can present your property in the best possible light, ensuring that your real estate photos and videos are enticing, ultimately attracting more potential buyers and maximizing your returns.
Joint Pixels is your premier choice for real estate photography in Atlanta. We bring unparalleled expertise and cutting-edge equipment to capture your property’s full potential. With meticulous editing, personalized service, and quick turnarounds, we ensure your listings shine brightly. Our comprehensive offerings, including virtual tours and home staging, make us your one-stop solution for top-notch real estate marketing. Choose Joint Pixels for a successful sale and attract more potential buyers to your listings.
