The garage and any outbuildings on a property may not be the most glamorous spaces, but they can be incredibly valuable selling points. Buyers love the idea of extra storage, workspaces, and potential for customization. But to make these areas shine, they need to be clean, organized, and functional.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to prepare garages and outbuildings for a real estate shoot. Whether it’s organizing tools or sweeping out cobwebs, these steps will help turn even the most cluttered garage into a selling point.
The Garage Prep Checklist
- Organize Storage Areas Garages are often used for storage, and that’s okay—as long as the storage is organized. Neatly stack boxes, hang tools on walls, and store items in cabinets or shelving units. An organized garage gives the impression that the home has ample storage space and is well-maintained.
- Remove Clutter & Clean the Floors Garages can easily become cluttered with random items, from sports equipment to half-empty paint cans. Clear out any unnecessary items and sweep the floors to remove dust, dirt, or debris. If the garage floor has stains, consider using a cleaner or even a pressure washer to freshen it up.
- Highlight Functionality Whether your garage is used for parking cars, storing tools, or serving as a workshop, make sure buyers can see its full potential. If you’ve got workbenches or tool storage, organize them neatly to showcase the garage’s functionality.
The Outbuilding Prep Checklist
- Tidy Up & Organize Outbuildings like sheds, barns, or workshops often serve as extra storage or hobby spaces. Make sure they’re clean and organized, just like the garage. If the outbuilding is used for tools or equipment, neatly arrange everything so buyers can see the potential for storage or projects.
- **Sweep & Clean the Space Sweep out any dirt or debris and remove cobwebs from corners. Outbuildings can get dusty quickly, but a little cleaning can make them feel much more inviting and functional.
- Showcase the Space’s Potential If your outbuilding has a unique function—like a workshop, art studio, or gardening shed—make sure to highlight that in the photos. Buyers love spaces that offer versatility, so showing the full potential of the outbuilding can be a big selling point.
Real-World Example: How an Organized Garage Helped Sell a Home
We once worked with a homeowner who had a garage filled with clutter. Tools were scattered everywhere, and the floor was covered in dirt and debris. After spending a few hours organizing tools, sweeping the floor, and clearing out unnecessary items, the garage looked completely different. In the photos, it became a clean, organized space that showcased the home’s storage potential. Several buyers commented on how much they appreciated the well-maintained garage, and it ended up being a key selling point.
Activity: Garage Clean-Up Challenge
Spend 30 minutes in your garage or outbuilding. Tackle the clutter first—remove anything you don’t need and organize the rest. Once the clutter is gone, sweep the floor and dust off any surfaces. See how much better the space looks when it’s clean and organized!
Discussion Question: How Can a Clean Garage Add Value to a Home?
Discuss how an organized, functional garage can add value to a home. Why do buyers appreciate clean, well-maintained garages and outbuildings? Talk about how showcasing these spaces in the best light can make a big impact during a real estate shoot.
Wrapping It Up
Garages and outbuildings might not be the most exciting spaces in a home, but they play a huge role in a buyer’s decision-making process. A clean, organized garage or outbuilding shows that the home has been well cared for and offers valuable extra space. Stay tuned for next week’s post, where we’ll explore the final touches that make a home shine before a real estate shoot, from light fixtures to personal items!
Stay tuned for posts 12 through 20, where we will delve into each remaining aspect of preparing a home for a successful real estate photography shoot, covering everything from shot lists to how to handle special features and drone photography! Each week, we’ll provide practical tips, real-world examples, and activities to ensure your property is camera-ready!
