At Bourne Estate Agents, we know the importance of stunning property photographs. To ensure we capture the best images, it’s essential to prepare before our professional photographer’s visit. There will be limited time for tidying on the day, and our photographers have been instructed to move or touch as few items as possible. Decluttering and cleaning in advance ensures they can focus on capturing the best possible images.
Appointment Duration Please allocate one to two hours for the session. If a 3D scan is included, it could take up to three hours. This appointment will also cover the production of a floor plan and EPC.
Our Room-by-Room Guide
Making the Most of Natural Light While we can’t control the weather, we can add a blue sky to the final photo. If you live near a tidal location, schedule the appointment when the tide is in. Ensure all surfaces are gleaming; a thorough clean and polish of floors and surfaces is recommended. Sparkling clean windows let in more light, so clean them in advance.
The Living Rooms
- Remove private images and sensitive items.
- Plump up cushions or replace them if needed.
- Remove newspapers, magazines, and cards.
- Clear away ‘working from home’ desks and files.
- Prepare open fires ready for lighting.
The Kitchen
- Declutter worktops and the tops of kitchen cupboards.
- Leave the kettle and toaster but remove other appliances.
- Remove children’s drawings or magnets from the fridge.
- Tuck away washing-up liquid and dishcloths.
- Ensure the fruit bowl is generously filled.
- Remove pet items.
Bathrooms
- Clear bottles of shampoo and shower gel unless they are luxury brands.
- Remove children’s bath toys, towels, bath mats, loo brushes, and bleach.
- Buyers prefer to see heated towel rails rather than towels.
Outside Space
- Move cars off the drive and hide unsightly bins or recycling tubs.
- Remove covers from garden furniture, put out cushions, and open parasol umbrellas.
- Retract or cover rotary washing lines and tidy away hoses and watering cans.
- Remove children’s smaller toys.
- Mow the lawn, weed flower beds, and trim hedges.
Props and Accessories
- Fresh flowers add a splash of colour and make a room look inviting.
- No need to lay the table for a formal dinner.
- Ensure all light bulbs are working.
- Use a box room or garage to store items during the marketing visit.
By following these tips and preparing in advance, you can ensure your property looks its best in the marketing photographs, making a great first impression on your potential buyers.
Please let us know if your appointment times differ so we can update the piece accordingly.
Adapted from Nichecom