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Instructing - What Happens On The Day?

Jun 10, 2021

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"Properties with professional photography typically generate more online engagement and viewing enquiries than those with poor-quality imagery."

 

Preparing Your Home for Photography & Virtual 360° Tours

 

When you have had your valuation, and you have decided to instruct us to market your property, it is important that we make the most of this appointment, so we can efficiently, and effectively market your home.

On the day we will carry out the following:

  1. Photographs & Virtual 360 Tour 

  2. Measurements & Dictation Notes

  3. Marketing Preparation

  4. Completing & Signing Documentation

  5. ID Checks

Preparation is Everything

The better prepared your home is, the better your photographs and virtual tour will look. High-quality marketing attracts more interest, generates more viewings, and helps showcase your property at its absolute best.

When preparing your home, imagine you are expecting prospective buyers for a viewing. Your property should be clean, tidy, decluttered, and well-lit.

Open all curtains and blinds to maximise natural light and, where appropriate, switch on lamps to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Make beds neatly, ideally with fresh linen, and ensure each room is presented with purpose and care.

While decluttering is important, try not to remove everything. Buyers want to see a home, not an empty shell. A few carefully chosen accessories, cushions, plants, or decorative items can help create warmth and allow buyers to imagine themselves living there.

 

See Your Home Through a Buyer's Eyes

One of the best pieces of advice we can offer is to take some photographs of your own before our visit.

Stand in the corners of rooms and take pictures from the angles you think an estate agent might use. Then sit down with a cup of tea (or something stronger!) and look through the images on a larger screen.

You will be amazed at what you notice. Everyday items that you no longer see can suddenly stand out in photographs. Looking at your home through a buyer's eyes can help you identify small improvements that make a big difference.

 

Small Details Matter

Before photography day, consider:

  • Clearing kitchen worktops of unnecessary items
  • Tidying bathroom surfaces and removing toiletries where possible
  • Hiding laundry baskets, cleaning products and waste bins
  • Organising cables, chargers and remote controls
  • Putting away pet beds, food bowls and toys
  • Removing coats, shoes and excess items from hallways
  • Parking vehicles away from the front of the property if practical

These simple touches help create cleaner, more spacious-looking images.

 

Don't Forget the Outside

First impressions count, and the exterior of your home is often the very first image buyers will see.

Mow the lawn, trim any overgrown plants, sweep pathways, and neatly arrange outdoor furniture. If you have flowerpots or hanging baskets, position them to add colour and character.

The main front photograph is one of the most important images in our marketing. It appears across property portals, social media and our website, so maximising its visual impact is essential.

Ask yourself:

  • Is the driveway tidy and free from weeds?
  • Does the frontage need a sweep or pressure wash?
  • Are wheelie bins tucked away where possible?
  • Does the entrance feel welcoming and well cared for?

For properties with predominantly hard landscaping, adding a few pots or hanging baskets can soften the appearance and create a more inviting first impression.

 

What If the Weather Isn't Great?

If the weather is unsuitable on the day of our visit, don't worry. We can always return on a brighter day to capture the exterior photographs, ensuring your property is presented in the best possible light.

 

We're Here to Help

We truly appreciate the effort that goes into preparing your home for marketing. However, it is one of the most worthwhile investments of time you can make, helping to attract more buyers and maximise the value of your property.

If you have any questions or would like advice before photography day, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We are always happy to help and can even arrange a pre-marketing visit to provide guidance on presenting your home at its very best.