We all know the saying: “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” Well, that’s especially true in real estate. The exterior of a home is the first thing potential buyers will see, and you want to make sure it stops them in their tracks (in a good way). A well-maintained lawn, spotless windows, and a clean driveway can set the tone for the entire showing, even if it’s just through photos. So how do you make sure your home’s exterior is camera-ready? Let’s dig in. The Essential Exterior Prep Checklist
- Mow the Grass & Do the Trim Work
Long, scraggly grass and overgrown bushes are a big no-no. Think of the lawn as the home’s “frame.” When it’s neat and well-kept, it makes the entire property look sharper. Make sure the grass is freshly mowed, the edges are trimmed, and the bushes are in check. If your home has flower beds, fresh mulch and deadheading any wilted blooms can also add a lot of visual appeal. - Weed & Clean Around the House
If weeds are sprouting up between cracks in the sidewalk or near the foundation, get rid of them. The goal here is to create a clean, polished look. Make sure any exterior lighting fixtures are dusted off and working properly—this might seem small, but bright, well-lit spaces always look better in photos. - Clean Those Windows
Dirty windows with streaks and smudges can ruin an otherwise beautiful exterior shot. Grab some glass cleaner and make sure those windows are spotless. Bonus tip: clean windows let in more natural light inside, which makes for better interior photos too. - Roll Up Hoses & Put Away Toys
Nothing says “chaos” like a tangled garden hose or kids’ toys strewn across the yard. Put everything away—this includes bikes, gardening tools, and even cars. Ideally, the driveway and front yard should be free of all distractions. - Sweep & Tidy the Driveway, Porch, and Patio
Any debris like leaves, dirt, or random sticks should be swept away. If the driveway or patio is looking dingy, consider pressure washing them to give everything a fresh, clean look.
Real-World Example: How a Clutter-Free Exterior Made All the Difference
We once worked with a homeowner who had a gorgeous house, but they left a rusty old lawnmower parked in the front yard when we arrived for the shoot. No big deal, right? Wrong. That lawnmower drew so much attention in the photos that it completely overshadowed the house itself. After a little coaxing, we convinced the homeowner to move it out of sight, and the transformation was incredible. Suddenly, the house became the star of the show, not the random yard equipment.
Activity: Plan Your Own Exterior Prep
Imagine you’re about to photograph a home for a real estate listing. You pull up to the driveway and immediately spot five things that need attention. What are they? Write down your top priorities for cleaning up the space. Now, ask yourself: How would those changes impact the overall look of the home?
Discussion Question: What Do Buyers Notice First?
As you prepare the exterior for a shoot, think about the first thing a potential buyer would notice. Is it the lawn? The front door? The overall condition of the yard? How can you make sure that the first glance leaves a lasting (positive) impression?
Wrapping It Up
When it comes to preparing for a real estate photography shoot, the exterior sets the stage. A clean, tidy yard can make your photos pop and, more importantly, make potential buyers want to see more. Stay tuned for next week’s post, where we’ll step inside and tackle the living room—the heart of the home.
