Set the Stage: How to Get Your Property Picture-Perfect for Real Estate Marketing

When it comes to marketing a property, visuals play a crucial role in attracting potential buyers. This is why real estate photography is so important. However, before you snap any pictures, you need to make sure the property is ready for its close-up. In other words, you need to set the stage.

In this post, we’ll share some staging secrets to help you get your property picture-perfect for real estate marketing. From decluttering and depersonalizing to accentuating the positive, we’ll cover it all. So, let’s dive in!

De-personalize

When preparing a property for real estate photography, one of the first things you should do is de-personalize the space.

This means removing any personal items, such as family photos or unique décor, that could distract potential buyers from envisioning themselves in the space. The goal is to create a neutral canvas that allows buyers to see the full potential of the property without any personal biases.

Start by removing any family photos or portraits from the walls. This will help make the space feel more universal and inviting to all potential buyers. It’s also important to clear off any personal items from countertops or shelves, such as framed diplomas, sports memorabilia, or collectibles.

De-personalizing can be tough, as it often means removing items that have sentimental value. However, by removing these personal items, you’re creating a more neutral space that allows buyers to focus on the property’s features and benefits. By doing so, you’ll increase the likelihood of attracting potential buyers and making a successful sale.

Declutter

Clutter can be a big distraction when it comes to real estate photography.

Before you take any pictures of your property, it is important to remove any unnecessary clutter that could take away from the space or make it feel less organized. Cluttered countertops, messy bookshelves, and overflowing closets can all make a space feel cramped and uninviting.

Start by going through each room and sorting items into piles of things to keep, donate, or throw away. You should aim to get rid of anything that you don’t use on a regular basis, or that doesn’t contribute to the overall aesthetic of the room. This might include excess furniture, outdated decor, or unnecessary knick-knacks.

Once you have sorted everything out, find a place for everything you’re keeping. This might mean investing in storage solutions like shelves or baskets, or simply reorganizing the furniture in a more efficient way. Be sure to leave plenty of negative space in each room, as this can help it feel more spacious and open.

Remember, the goal of decluttering is to make your property feel more appealing and attractive to potential buyers. By removing unnecessary items and organizing the remaining belongings, you can help to showcase your property in the best possible light.

Clean

Once you’ve decluttered, the next step is to give your property a deep clean. Cleaning is an essential step to getting your property picture-perfect for real estate marketing. It’s also one of the most overlooked aspects of home staging. When a property is dirty, it can turn potential buyers off immediately.

Here are some cleaning tips to help you get your property ready for real estate photography:

• Deep clean all surfaces. This includes countertops, cabinets, floors, and walls. Make sure everything is spotless and free from any stains or marks.
• Don’t forget about the windows. Clean the inside and outside of the windows to make sure they are clear and allow for natural light to flood in.
• Freshen up the bathrooms. Clean the toilets, sinks, and showers. Replace old towels with fresh, new ones.
• Take care of any odors. If you have pets, make sure to deep clean any areas where they spend time. You may also want to light some candles or use an air freshener to eliminate any odors.
• Pay attention to details. Don’t forget about the little things. Dust any surfaces that collect it, like light fixtures, ceiling fans, and baseboards.

Taking the time to clean your property thoroughly can make a huge difference in how it appears to potential buyers. It shows that you’ve taken care of the property and helps them envision themselves living there. Plus, a clean property just looks better in pictures!

Organize

One of the keys to staging a property for real estate photography is organization. Potential buyers want to be able to envision themselves living in the space, and clutter can be a major distraction.

Here are some tips for organizing your property for the best possible photos:

1. Get rid of anything you don’t need. Take a hard look at your belongings and ask yourself if you really need them. If the answer is no, it’s time to declutter. Donate or sell anything that you no longer use or need.
2. Store items in hidden places. Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to put everything in its place. Use cabinets, closets, and other storage areas to keep items out of sight. Remember, the less clutter visible in the photos, the better.
3. Use storage bins. If you have items that you don’t want to get rid of but don’t use often, consider storing them in decorative bins. This can be a great way to keep items organized and out of sight.
4. Group items together. In the areas that you’re staging, group like items together. For example, on a kitchen counter, group together a few cookbooks, a jar of wooden spoons, and a bowl of lemons. This will create a cohesive and stylish look.

By organizing your property, you can create a clean and clutter-free environment that will make it easier for potential buyers to imagine themselves living in the space.

Style

After cleaning, organizing, and decluttering your property, the next step is to style it for the perfect photoshoot. You want to create an inviting and comfortable atmosphere for potential buyers.

Here are a few tips to set the stage for the ultimate photoshoot:

1. Choose a theme. The theme of your property should align with its design style. For example, if it’s a modern home, keep things clean and minimalist. If it’s a classic or traditional home, bring in elements that evoke a classic feel. Whatever you choose, stick with it throughout the space.
2. Layer with textures. Adding textures to your decor will create visual interest in your photos. Try incorporating a variety of materials like faux fur throws, woven baskets, and wood accents. It’s all about layering and creating depth.
3. Use pops of color. Color can be a great way to draw attention to key areas of your property. Consider using colorful accents in small doses like throw pillows, area rugs, and artwork.
4. Focus on the details. Don’t forget to pay attention to the little things. Adding fresh flowers, decorative bowls, and decorative books can make a big difference in making a room feel complete.

By styling your property, you can really set the stage for potential buyers. When people see your listing photos, they should be able to imagine themselves living there. With a little effort, your property can stand out and make a lasting impression.

Accessorize

Once you have the main pieces in place, it’s time to add those finishing touches that really make a property shine. Accessorizing can be as simple as adding a few carefully placed decorative items, or it can involve a more elaborate plan to showcase certain features of the property.

Start with a few well-placed accents that complement the décor. Use items such as throw pillows, vases, and artwork to add color and interest to the space. Be mindful of the scale of the accessories – too many small items can look cluttered, while too many large pieces can overwhelm the space.

In addition to decorative items, consider adding functional elements that add value to the property. For example, a tray with glasses and a decanter on a coffee table can suggest an inviting space for entertaining, while a bowl of fresh fruit on the kitchen counter implies healthy living.

Keep in mind that accessories can help to draw the eye towards certain areas of the property, so use them strategically. If you want to highlight a particular feature such as a fireplace or built-in shelving, add items that draw attention to those areas.

Finally, don’t forget to freshen up the space with plants or fresh flowers. They not only add color and life to a room but also make it feel welcoming and inviting.

Accessorizing can take a bit of time and effort, but it’s well worth it in the end. By adding those finishing touches, you can create a space that feels warm, inviting, and perfect for showcasing in your real estate photos.

Prepare for pets

If you have pets in your home, it’s essential to prepare for them before the real estate photography session. Although you love your furry friends, some potential buyers may not be animal lovers, so it’s vital to make your home pet-friendly.

Start by removing all the pet items, such as toys, feeding bowls, and litter boxes, from the shots. It’s also a good idea to schedule a pet grooming session before the photo session to make your furry friends look their best.

If your pets tend to shed, make sure to vacuum and clean all surfaces thoroughly before the photo session. Pet hair on furniture and carpets can be a major turn-off for some potential buyers, so make sure you’re diligent about cleaning up.

If you’re worried about your pets getting anxious during the photo shoot, consider having them stay with a friend or family member for the day. This will not only keep your pets safe and comfortable, but it will also ensure that they don’t distract from the beautiful home you’re trying to showcase.

By taking these steps to prepare for your pets, you’ll be able to show your home in its best light and appeal to a wider range of potential buyers. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your furry friends are happy and comfortable.

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