Prepare your home for selling & photography

Preparing your home for selling is all about making it as appealing as possible to potential buyers. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you get your home photograph and market-ready. Whether your home is being viewed online or in-person, preparing your home is a crucial step in selling and on potential buyer’s first impression.

CLEAN THOROUGHLY

Deep clean every room, including skirtings, windows, appliances, mirrors & furniture.
Remove visible dust, dirt and fingerprints.
Hire professional cleaners if needed (especially for carpets and windows).
Polish reflective surfaces (like faucets and glass) to make them sparkle.
Don’t forget the garage, basement and attic.

MAKE REPAIRS

Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, cracked tiles or damaged walls.
Replace burnt-out lightbulbs and ensure all fixtures work properly.
Touch up paint or repaint in neutral colours (e.g. white, beige, soft grey).

BOOST CURB APPEAL

Mow the lawn, trim hedges, weed flower beds and plant fresh flowers if needed.
Power-wash walkways, driveway, siding and porch.
Repaint or clean the front door. Consider a new doormat or house numbers.
Sweep the porch and remove any clutter (shoes, tools, toys).
Park cars away from the home to keep the driveway and street view clear.

DECLUTTER AND DEPERSONALISE

Remove family photos, personal collections, and excess decor.
Minimise furniture to make rooms appear larger.
Organise closets and storage spaces – they should look spacious, not overstuffed.
Remove all unnecessary items from counter-tops
Store away wires, remotes, paperwork and personal items
Make each room look spacious and simple.

STAGE YOUR HOME

Arrange furniture to highlight each room’s flow and purpose (bed in bedroom, desk in office).
Add fresh linens, neutral throws, or a few tasteful accessories.
Set the dining table or add a bowl of fresh fruit in the kitchen.
Fluff pillows, straighten bedding and arrange furniture neatly.

MAXIMISE LIGHT

Open blinds and curtains to let in natural light.
Replace heavy drapes with sheer panels.
Replace any burnt-out bulbs and use the same colour temperature (e.g. warm/cool)
Add floor or table lamps to dark corners.
Turn on all lights for photographs.

VIEWINGS

Be ready to leave during viewings (buyers feel more comfortable).
Keep the home clean and fresh-smelling at all times.
Remove pets or secure them appropriately.

WHAT TO HIDE

Trash cans and laundry bins & baskets.
Shampoo bottles, toothbrushes, and toilet brushes.
Pet bowls, beds, litter boxes and toys.
Children’s toys and excess electronics.
Kitchen sponges, dish soap and paper towels.

Talk to our Home Staging team that can advise, assist and dress your home to make a great first impression!

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