A virtual tour of your home can be a powerful internet marketing tool. It will allow home shoppers all over Shreveport / Bossier City and the internet to view your property.  Here are some tips to get the most from your virtual home tour.

Tip 1: Tidy up. Think of your virtual tour as an Open House 24/7. Prepare your home as if you are having an open house. As you prepare, go through each room tidying up. Items on counter tops such as the basket of mail in the kitchen or the toiletries on the bathroom counter should be removed. Tables and counters will photograph best with just a few tastefully selected items. Pick up and put away children’s toys, clothes, dishes, items on the floors and furniture. All this can appear to be clutter in the camera. Don’t forget to check for burnt out light bulbs which can really stand out in a photo.

Tip 2: Please do not have other workers such as housekeeping, lawn crews, or repairmen at the home during this time. If you desire to have housekeeping or lawn work done ahead of time, your virtual tour photographer will be glad to work with you on the best possible time to photograph your home.

Tip 3: Some pets love to pose for the camera! But others are uncomfortable with equipment or strangers. Please plan ahead for your pets.

Tip 4: What’s on your fridge? The family photos and artwork on the refrigerator are fun to look at, however, it can often appear as clutter to the camera. Please plan to remove these items before your virtual tour. A clean front on the refrigerator always shows best in photographs.

Tip 5: If you have begun packing, remove the boxes to an area which will not be photographed. Items stacked in the corner or tucked under the bed can show in the photos and this will keep your home from looking its best.

Tip 6: Outside, move summertime items such as bikes, skates and pool toys to a storage area. Plan to have the lawn mowed and edged. If summer heat has caused the grass to turn brown, try to water a couple of days in advance to give it a fresh look. Trim hedges and sweep walks and driveways to give a manicured and inviting appearance. Add a few flowering plants for extra curb appeal!

Tip 7: Finally, don’t forget the pool. A sparkling, clear pool can inspire thoughts of summer fun and relaxation, even in the “off” season. However, green murky water can leave an impression too. Make sure your pool is an inviting asset to your home.

Home buyers are looking for photos and virtual tours when shopping for a new home.  A professionally photographed virtual tour should be a strong selling feature for your real estate listing.  Working together, the seller, photographer and real estate agent can create strong photos that really make a home shine.  Please contact us if you have any questions regarding preparing your home for photo or a virtual tour.