Your Realtor® just told you she scheduled a professional real estate photographer to photograph your home for it’s listing debut. Now what? 

First, pat yourself on the back for working with a Realtor® who understands marketing your home in the age of the Internet. According to the National Association of Realtors, 89% of home buyers think photos are the most useful part of a real estate listing. And listings with professional real estate photos get 61% more views online. With a little work on your part, you can make sure your home shines in those photos and they help attract the eye of potential buyers. 

Here are a few simple things you can do before the photographer arrives. 

De-clutter:

Clear off counters, tabletops and other surfaces where the daily stuff of life has accumulated. 

Reduce:

Remove excess furnishings and knick-knacks from rooms. Large amounts of furniture and decorations can distract from the features of the home and can potentially make a room look smaller in photos. 

Light It Up:

Replace all burned out light bulbs both inside and outside the house. Good lighting is key. 

Depersonalize:

You want potential buyers to see your home as their next home. To appeal to the widest possible audience tuck personal photos and mementos into a drawer or closet.