In a previous blog, we discussed how to stage your home to make it appealing to buyers during showings. In today's blog, we will address staging your home to get the best marketing photos and videos. After all, in this digital age, first impressions often happen online long before a buyer steps foot inside the house. When it comes to selling your home, captivating photographs are your strongest selling tool. Properly staging your home for real estate photography can make a world of difference in attracting potential buyers. Buyers don't often have the opportunity to scrutinize every inch of your home while touring in-person; however, any photos that appear in the online marketing will invite buyers to study each in detail. Often, buyers will review the photos multiple times before viewing the home in person and may catch things they would otherwise miss. Follow these essential steps to ensure your home looks its absolute best in photographs (and, hey...the good news is that many of these steps are recommended for photographs and for in-person showings, so you're killing two birds with one stone):
1. Depersonalize & Streamline: Start by removing any personal items, such as family photos and personal memorabilia. Streamlining is key to creating a clean and inviting space that allows potential buyers to envision their own lives in the home. Less visual clutter also means more space, which is always a plus in real estate photography.
2. Clean Thoroughly: Cleanliness is next to godliness when it comes to staging your home for photographs. Give every surface a deep clean, from floors to ceilings. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas, like the kitchen and bathroom. A spotless home not only looks better in photos but also leaves a positive impression on potential buyers, and gives the appearance that the home has been well-maintained.
3. Enhance Natural Light: Natural light can do wonders for your home's photographs. Open curtains and blinds to let in as much light as possible. If your home has beautiful views, showcase them by framing the shot with the window in view. Additionally, clean windows to ensure they're free of streaks or smudges. Be prepared to follow your professional photographer's instructions if something needs to be moved out-of-frame to get the perfect shot.
4. Set the Scene: Create inviting scenes in each room by arranging furniture in a way that highlights the space's functionality and flow. Use neutral and tasteful decor to add warmth and character. Fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit, or a vase of colorful flowers can add a touch of life and vibrancy to the shots.
5. Highlight Key Features: Focus on your home's unique selling points. If you have a stunning fireplace, make it the focal point of the living room. Showcase built-in bookshelves, hardwood floors, or architectural details that make your home stand out. These features can be strong selling points in your photos.
6. Keep It Neutral: Neutral colors are universally appealing and help potential buyers see themselves living in the space. Consider repainting any bold or personalized walls with neutral, soft tones.
7. Attention to Detail: Pay attention to small details that may detract from the overall appeal. Replace burnt-out light bulbs, fix minor repairs, and replace worn-out fixtures or hardware. These small fixes can make a big difference in how your home presents itself in photographs.
8. Exterior Matters: Don't forget about the exterior of your home. Curb appeal is the first thing potential buyers see, so ensure your front yard, porch, and entryway are well-maintained and inviting. Consider adding some potted plants or fresh landscaping to enhance the exterior's visual appeal. Pressure wash any siding, railings, porches, and/or walkways that are dirty or mildewed.
9. Hire a Professional Photographer: While smartphones have advanced camera technology, it's best to leave real estate photography to the professionals. A skilled real estate photographer knows how to capture your home in the best light and angle, making every room look its finest.
10. Timing Matters: Coordinate with your photographer to schedule the photoshoot during the optimal time of day. The ideal lighting conditions are typically in the morning or late afternoon when natural light is soft and warm. Weather will also play a factor for exterior photos and drone videos.
In conclusion, staging your home for real estate photography is an essential step in attracting potential buyers. By following these tips and presenting your home in the best possible light, you'll increase your chances of selling quickly and at a favorable price. Remember, the investment in staging and professional photography is an investment in the successful sale of your home. Good luck with your real estate journey!
