HOW TO GET THE HOUSE READY FOR THE PHOTOSHOOT
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De-clutter as much as possible. Put away toys, clothing, dishes, towels, shoes etc.
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Depersonalize to a certain degree. Put away photos of family, young children and any potentially offensive art.
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Remove any seasonal or holiday decorations that can quickly outdate your photos.
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Dust and vacuum.
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Make all the beds, fluff all the pillows, and check the bed skirts.
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Clean the kitchen sink and put away all the dishes.
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Clear all kitchen counter tops and put away toasters, can openers, and all detergent and cleaning items.
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Clear all bathroom counter tops and put away all personal items. Include nicely folded towels.
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Remove all shampoos, conditioners, body-washes, etc. from the shower.
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Put out the guest towels and hide all the others.
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Hide all trash cans, small rugs, mats.
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Remove all magnets and decorations from the refrigerator.
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If there are pets, hide all food/water bowls, pet beds, and pet toys.
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Put all toilet seats and lids down.
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Replace all burned out light bulbs.
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Consider decorating the tables with your prettiest place settings.
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Consider putting out vases of fresh flowers.
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Have the lawn trimmed, leaves raked, bushes and trees pruned.
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Clean up after any animal.
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Put away all garbage cans, hoses, garden tools, toys, bikes etc.
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Hide any yard decorations.
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If there is a pool, hot tub, or spa, take any security gate down, uncover, and clean.
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If there will be any twilight photos taken, replace any broken lighting on the home, around the landscape, and in the pool.
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Open the umbrellas on any patio sets and arrange the chairs and tables.
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Uncover grills.
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Consider adding splashes of bright colored flowers to the landscape and in pots.
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Turn on ALL interior lights – even lights on night tables, furniture cabinets, and under the microwave oven.
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Turn OFF all ceiling fans.
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Light fireplaces and candles.
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Open all blinds, shades, and curtains.
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Clear all cars and vehicles from the driveway and the street in front of the home.
by Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate