Preparing for Photography: A Tailored Checklist

High-quality photography is one of the most powerful tools we have to sell your property. It’s what captures a buyer's attention online and makes them want to see more. Preparing for the professional photographer is a crucial step in our process, and it’s a one-time opportunity to make a brilliant first impression. The more effort you put into getting your property ready, the better the photos will be, and the more potential buyers we will attract.

We’ve put together this simple checklist to help you prepare your home, ensuring our professional photographer can capture every space in its best light. Taking these steps will help us showcase your property’s full potential, setting the stage for a successful sale from day one.

The Day Before: General Preparation

This is an opportunity to showcase your property at its very best. The more effort you put in, the better the photography and marketing will be.

• Deep Clean: Do a thorough clean of every room, paying close attention to windows, mirrors, benchtops, and floors.
• Declutter: Go through the entire home and remove all unnecessary items. The goal is to make spaces look as open and clean as possible.
• Depersonalise: Put away personal photos, kids' drawings, and all family memorabilia. This allows potential buyers to imagine themselves in the home.
• Final Touches: Wipe down all appliances and benchtops. Ensure all lightbulbs are working, with a consistent colour temperature in each room.

On the Day: Outside First

The exterior and grounds are a potential buyer's first impression.

• Move Vehicles: Ensure the driveway and street directly in front of the house are completely free of all cars, boats, trailers, and bins.
• Perfect the Garden: Mow the lawns, trim the edges, pull any weeds, and water plants. Sweep all paths and patios.
• Tidy Up: Put away all gardening tools, hoses, children's toys, and sports equipment. Take down any washing from the clothesline.
• Pools and Covers: Remove all covers from the pool and spa, and hide any cleaning equipment.

On the Day: Inside Details

Now, we'll go room by room to get the inside ready. The photographer will need the property to be free of all people and pets for safety and to get the best shots.

Living & Dining Rooms

• Clear the way: Put away all remote controls, magazines, and other small items.
• Hide the cords: Conceal or unplug all electrical cords from TVs, lamps, and other devices.
• Styling: Straighten cushions and throws. Add a simple vase of flowers or a bowl of fruit to the coffee table or dining table.

Kitchen

• Clear the benchtops: Remove all small appliances like toasters, kettles, and blenders. Leave only one or two stylish items.
• Sparkle & Shine: Ensure all kitchen benchtops are wiped down and the sink is completely empty of dishes.
• Hide it: Remove tea towels and any magnets or notes from the fridge door.

Bedrooms

• Make the beds: Make all beds neatly, using your best linen, and fluff up all pillows. Ensure there are no wrinkles.
• Clear the surfaces: Remove all items from bedside tables and dressers, leaving only a lamp or a single decorative item.
• Put clothes away: Ensure all clothes and shoes are put away and out of sight.

Bathrooms

• Clean and dry: Wipe down the basin, mirror, and all glass surfaces. Ensure shower screens are clean and dry.
• Hide the clutter: Remove all personal items like toothbrushes, shampoo bottles, and bins from the counter and shower.
• Fresh Towels: Hang fresh, clean, and neatly folded towels on the towel rack.
• The Final Touch: Always make sure the toilet seat is down.