How to prepare your home for real estate photography

One of the best marketing tools in the real estate sector is the use of photography that well captures the whole layout and the best features of your home.

Professional photos will enable you to attract serious buyers. The process, however, starts with the proper staging your home for photography.

While professional real estate photographer will help with the staging of your home, most of the work to be done is on your part. Here are ways to prepare your home for professional photography.

1. Clean your home and remove clutter.

A clean home without the trappings shows the actual value of your home. Most buyers would like to see a beautiful, yet clean house. Allow the buyers to visualize what the room would look like with their furniture. Remove your own furniture and declutter to provide the impression of a larger room.

2. Highlight the living room.

Most buyers would like to see the living room first, because it gives them an idea of how big the house really is. It should look comfortable and big enough to accommodate the whole family and guests. A welcoming living room also provides a sense of warmth and personal touch.

3. Stage the kitchen.

The kitchen is another attraction that serious buyers look at in a home. Make sure the kitchen has a beautiful layout and complete essential features such as countertop, furniture and appliances that make cooking a pleasurable activity. Use the right color to send the right vibes for a kitchen, and add an inviting smell.

4. Prepare the bedroom.

Bedrooms should feel cozy and warm. It should include a bed and a dresser but should be clear of personal items and clutter. Replace dark colored curtains with lighter one to show off the natural lighting.

5. Arrange the dining room.

The dining room should include a dining table and chairs for a typical family. Make it inviting by putting the right placemats, dinnerware and center piece of napkins.

6. Feature the bathroom.

The bathroom should be sparkling clean and clutter-free, with basic essentials such as mirror and tissue holder. Put some soap and deodorizer to make it look and smell nice.

In general, use neutral colors on walls and furniture. To break the monotony, add a vase of fresh flowers, a warm blanket draped over the arm of a couch, or a bedding set with a pop of color.

Remove personal and distracting items to help buyers envision themselves and their belongings in the home. Spend time in staging the house to make it appealing to buyers and enable them to envision their ideal home.