Kitchen Photography Prep: Turn Your Kitchen into a Buyer’s Dream
Ahhh…the satisfaction of a fresh, clean kitchen ready to welcome family and friends! Whether it’s the hub of your home or a culinary masterpiece in the making, the kitchen is one of the most important spaces to prepare when selling your house. This is the second installment in our series on getting your home ready for market photography.
Why the Kitchen Matters So Much
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and for many buyers, it’s the most critical room to assess during a showing. If your kitchen is outdated, consider refurbishing it before listing your home. However, if a full remodel isn’t in the cards, don’t worry—there’s still plenty you can do to make your kitchen shine.
Step 1: Declutter and Clean Thoroughly
Before anything else, clear your kitchen of all unnecessary items:
- Clear Countertops: Remove appliances, utensil holders, soap and lotion containers, rags, towels, and sponges from countertops. The goal is to showcase as much counter space as possible.
- Wipe Down Every Surface: Clean every surface meticulously, from countertops and cabinets to appliances and floors. A spotless kitchen tells buyers that the space is well-maintained.
- Empty the Refrigerator Door: Remove all magnets, photos, and notes from the fridge to eliminate distractions and create a clean, streamlined look.
Step 2: Begin Packing and Organizing
Use this opportunity to start packing and sorting through your belongings. Here’s how:
- Pack Away Extraneous Items: Anything that doesn’t serve an immediate purpose should be packed up for storage. Consider setting aside boxes for a thrift store donation or a future garage sale.
- Simplify Decor: While it’s okay to leave a few decorative items for a lived-in look, keep it minimal. A vase of fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit can add a welcoming touch without overwhelming the space.
Step 3: Consider the Visual Impact
When prepping your kitchen for photography, think about how the space will be perceived through the lens:
- Focus on Key Features: Highlight elements like your kitchen island, stove, or cabinetry by minimizing distractions. For instance, removing just a couple of items can make a significant difference, allowing the eye to focus on that amazing stove or stunning island.
- Open-Concept Areas: Be mindful of open areas, such as kitchen/dining combos or connected living spaces. Clear all clutter and personal items to allow the viewer’s eye to flow seamlessly from one area to the next, appreciating the layout and spaciousness of the home.
Why Less is More in Kitchen Photography
The two photos below show a prime example of how decluttering can transform a space. If all the items on the counter had simply been removed, the kitchen would look entirely different—more spacious, welcoming, and ready to be filled with new memories. The goal is to help buyers envision their own belongings in the space, focusing on the cabinets, appliances, wall color, flooring, and overall layout.
Preparing your kitchen for real estate photography might seem like a lot of work, but the effort is well worth it. A clean, decluttered kitchen not only photographs better but also helps potential buyers imagine themselves in the space, making it easier for them to fall in love with your home.
Until next time…
“The kitchen is the heart of every home, for the most part. It evokes memories of your family history.” —Debi Mazar
Contact Chad Jones Photography today to schedule your next real estate photoshoot or video tour. Our team of professionals is dedicated to capturing your property in its best light, ensuring that every detail shines through in the final results.