Preparing for the Shoot
A well prepared property will photograph much better, resulting in a more attractive view for prospective buyers / tenants. Most of this is similar to what you are already doing for showings:
Everywhere:
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Edit out extra furnishings as needed.
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Check all lamps and fixtures, replacing bulbs as needed.
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Switch off all ceiling fans so that only the lights will turn on.
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Put away photos or documents that you may not want visible. (Large photos that are not practical to move will be blurred out in Tour production if requested.)
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Make consideration for location of pets during shoot.
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Remove or replace anything that is too "taste-specific".
Outside:
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Consider location of vehicles, particularly in the driveway.
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Move garbage / recycling containers to a discreet location.
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Remove outdoor tools such as lawn mowers, hoses, etc.
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Store bikes, toys, etc. neatly in the garage or storage.
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Mow and rake the yard, removing clippings from walkways.
Living Areas:
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Remove or organize magazines and newspapers.
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Open blinds or other window treatments equally.
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Put away tv and stereo remotes.
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Tuck trash cans out of sight.
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Remove clutter from tables and bookshelves.
Kitchen:
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Clear counter tops and consider removing small appliances.
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Remove photos, notes, and fun drawings from the refrigerator.
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Clean and wipe down appliances and countertops.
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Consider an accent such as a fruit bowl or flowers.
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Tuck trash cans out of sight.
Dining Room:
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Set the table with quality dinnerware.
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Consider adding a pop of color with flowers or candles.
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De-clutter sideboards and china cabinets.
Bedrooms:
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Make all beds and tidy up or put away extra items.
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Hang up or fold clothing that would be visible.
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I like to include walk in closets, consider editing.
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Remove clutter from night stands and dressers.
Bathrooms:
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Clear countertops of medications, toothbrushes, etc.
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Remove shampoo and other such products from bath area.
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Place color appropriate towels neatly on towel rods.
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I love cats, but relocating the litter box may be a good idea.
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Check mirror and lighting fixtures for streaks.
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Toilet lids should be closed.
At the shoot appointment, I will first do a walk-through, measuring for floor plan rendering, turning on all lights, and making shoot notes. Then I will start capturing images, turning off the lights as I finish. Average time on site for a 2500 sqft home is 1.5 to 2 hours. Participate or just relax and I'll do my thing- It's totally up to you.
For Virtual Tour Services:
If a floor plan of the property is available, please have it handy. I will not need a hard copy, I will simply photograph it. I can use that to create the Tour floor plan, saving on-site time. If no printed floor plan is available, no problem, I will laser measure each room instead.