Q. I totally understand that good photos are important for selling my house, but do you recommend I do anything to prepare for them?
A. Good photos are imperative as first impressions count for a lot and could mean the difference between potential buyers booking a viewing of your home, or not.
Luckily, most agents nowadays routinely use professional photographers, or they invest heavily in the latest tech and training, so they and their staff get the best results from their equipment, producing professional quality photos to showcase homes at their very best.
Similarly, where badly composed, ill-lit, or uninspiring photos can instantly make or break a viewing decision, so can any mess, clutter or damage, which will be captured with piercing clarity, and if properties are seemingly uncared-for, this can have a massive influence.
Indeed, it is arguably even more important to prepare your house for the camera than it is for visiting buyers, who are much more likely to be distracted by other sights and sounds, so some preparation is needed.
Your estate agent will offer tailored advice on preparing your home but generally, the key is tidiness.
So, make sure the garden looks well tended and clear of anything unsightly, like last year’s paddling pool, weeds in the beds or rubbish bins. In reception rooms, make sure cushions are plumped up; dining tables either laid for a formal meal or completely clear; children’s toys and magazines tidied away, etc. Check all the lights work and if necessary, remove surplus pieces of furniture to create a feeling of space.
Also, try to make your kitchen look as pristine as it did the day it was installed – no washing up on the side, tea stains on the work surfaces or limescale on the sink. Make sure all clothes are away and beds are properly made. In the bathroom, fold towels neatly and remove collections of shampoo bottles, etc. And toilet seats should always be down!
Do this, and your home will be marketed at its best, attracting more buyers and the best possible price too. For more general, or specific advice on your property, give us a call.
About the Author...
