First of all, congratulations. I'm guessing that you're serious about selling your home if you are reading this post. Serious sellers attract serious buyers. Now, let's have some fun preparing for the big photo opportunity.
 
The photographers are on their way; it is time to set the stage. Approach this as if you're hosting a big party, lots of folks milling around and you need the house and property to look incredible in order to make a good impression. Analogy aside, that is what putting photos of your house on the internet is like, but not everyone interested in the event will arrive at the same time.
 
Here is a tip: photo editing can only do so much, so put in the closet anything you wouldn't want 7,000 people to see. Then, once potential buyers begin arriving, put that stuff away in storage because closet doors are opened during showings.
 
Getting Down To Business
 
Let's get into the details a bit further. We'll start at the curb and work our way around the property. Keep in mind, if you do all (or most) of these things for the pictures, you won't have to do them again for showings.
 
1. Curb appeal counts. The street view is your first opportunity to make a good impression, so get it right. Power wash siding and walkways give your home an instant facelift. This same concept applies for entryways in multi-unit buildings. Wash front windows, again, because grime doesn't pay. A clean doormat or potted plants in bloom always show up nicely in photos.
 
2. A lovely understanding. For wood or stone tiles, shining floors will help the room appear larger in pictures. Carpets should be clean and free of clutter.
 
3. Clean, clean, clean. Thousands of people will see these pictures. If you have stuff in the photos, that is all potential buyers will notice. The shoes in the hallway, kitchen utensils everywhere, and so on. Kitchens and bathrooms sell houses, so put an extra emphasis on those areas.
 
4. Get out the china. Set the table in the eating area to welcome guests. This preparation is for a party, remember? Treat your visitors to your finest table trimmings, so they feel as though they belong. Flowers, place settings, candles in candlesticks all boost the festive atmosphere.
 
5. Capture the view. If you have a unique location or an appealing vantage point, pass that along to your party attendees as well. The one thing about real estate that non-negotiable is the view.
 
6. Adjust the lighting. If you have a choice in the time of day for the shoot, schedule it for sunset. Soft light is always flattering.