How to prepare your home for photos

The whole home

• Clear unnecessary items from floors, tables, counters, shelves and windowsills.
• Remove personal photos, documents, medicines and other private belongings.
• Hide visible cables, chargers and extension cords where possible.
• Reduce small decorations. A few nice details work better than many small ones.
• Consider removing some furniture if a room feels cramped or overfurnished.
• Clean floors, windows, mirrors and other shiny surfaces.
• Check that all light bulbs work.
• Open curtains and blinds to let in as much daylight as possible.
• Turn off TVs and computer screens.
• Put away shoes, jackets, bags and outdoor clothing.
• Remove pet beds, food bowls, litter boxes and the like, and tidy away toys.
• Keep rooms free of people and pets while you take the photos.

Living room

• Keep the sofa, dining table and key furniture, but remove extra furniture and clutter.
• Straighten cushions and throws, tidy tables and shelves, and remove remotes, chargers and newspapers.
• A plant, a few decorations or fresh flowers are welcome.

Bedrooms

• Make the beds neatly.
• Clear bedside tables and dressers of clothes, chargers and personal items.
• Keep clothes in wardrobes and close the wardrobe doors.
• Tidy children's rooms especially well so the room and its size come through.

Kitchen

The counter should be almost empty. Remove:

• Dishes and dish racks
• Soap, cloths and brushes
• Paper towels, coffee bags, food, bottles and packaging
• Magnets, notes and pictures on the fridge
• A coffee machine, a plant or a fruit bowl can stay. Close all cupboards, drawers and appliances.

Bathroom

The bathroom should be as clean and tidy as possible. Remove:

• Toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, soap and other toiletries
• Cleaning products and laundry
• Scales, bins and toilet brush
• Personal towels and bathrobes
• Set out one or two nice towels. Clean shower walls, mirrors and the sink, and close the toilet lid.

Entrance and hallway

• Remove shoes, jackets, bags and umbrellas usually kept in the hallway.
• The less on the floor and hooks, the larger and more inviting the entrance feels.

Storage, laundry and other rooms

• Rooms that will be photographed should also be tidied.
• It doesn't need to be perfect, but the floor should be visible so size and function come through.

Balcony, terrace and garden

• Clear away rubbish, tools, toys and loose items.
• Arrange cushions on outdoor furniture and tidy tables and seating.
• Remove bikes and anything that draws attention.
• Mow the lawn and tidy plants if needed.
• Move cars if they block the house, the view or the outdoor area.