Home Preparation and Styling Tips for Real Estate Photography and Viewings

Real Estate Photography and Viewings

Home Preparation and Staging Tips

One of the most important aspects of the marketing process when selling one's home, is the visual representation of the property. The way in which a home is presented online greatly impacts whether a potential buyer will decide to view the home in person. It is crucial to pay attention to detail and follow the correct property styling and preparation guidance to ensure that your home is presented in the best way possible, for both real estate photography and property showings. You know what they say... First impressions are lasting impressions.

These home staging and preparation tips cover various aspects to consider when thinking about how to best prepare your property to attract the right buyers at the right price in an efficient timeframe.

How to best prepare the exterior of a property for an enhanced curb appeal:

1. Garden: Ensure that the grass is cut, the bushes trimmed, and that weeds are pulled out. Pack away all gardening and other equipment that can distract from the property.
2. Driveway: Remove vehicles from the driveway and close the garage. Also ensure that bikes and other toys are neatly packed away. This is an essential step for real estate photography as these objects serve as view blockers and can make a home appear smaller.
3. Patio: Ensure that the swimming pool is clean and that the cover is removed. If you have a Kreepy Krawly, we recommend removing it to create a picture-perfect pool. Remove covers from braai grills and other visible appliances and make sure that they are clean.
4. Walls: If needed, consider giving the exterior of your home a fresh coat of paint to bring new life to your property.

Interior staging and styling tips and tricks:

1. Clean: It is essential to maintain cleanliness from the day of the photoshoot, throughout the viewing process, until the day you sell your property. This will prove that the property is looked after and in good condition.
2. Declutter: Clutter in a room can make a space appear smaller and draws attention away from the space itself. Remove any loose items on tables, cupboards, windowsills, and floors. Conceal or remove freestanding garbage containers. One specific (and very important) aspect that homeowners tend to forget is to remove all visible toiletries from countertops, baths, and showers.
3. Repair and fix: Attention to detail is key. Buyers don't want to start a to-do list of what needs to be fixed when viewing a house. Think about small things such as loose or broken fixtures, scuff marks, burned out lightbulbs, and peeling paint. The small things often turn out to be the big things.
4. Depersonalize: Potential buyers always try to envision themselves living in a home. Try to pack away most family photos, trophies or awards and other personal items.
5. Paint: Never underestimate the power of a fresh lick of paint. Consider repainting if your walls look a bit tired to bring new life into your home. Also try to keep the colour of your walls as neutral as possible as some bold colours may distract from the space itself.
6. Styling: Plants and soft furnishings create an inviting and welcoming atmosphere in a space. Ensure that all lights and lamps are switched on. Also consider lighting a scented candle and opening doors and windows to remove lingering smells caused by pets or food.

This article has been compiled for general interest and should not be used or relied on as legal or other professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your property practitioner for specific and detailed advice. Errors and omissions excepted (E&OE)