Your first showing happens on a screen. In Simpsonville, buyers scroll fast and make split-second choices based on photos. If you want more clicks, more showings, and stronger offers, your home must be camera-ready. This checklist will show you exactly how to prepare, when to schedule, and what to expect so your listing looks its best. Let’s dive in.
Why photos matter in Simpsonville
Online photos are one of the top reasons buyers decide which homes to tour. In our market, agents treat professional photography as a basic cost of doing business because it sets the tone for everything that follows. A polished photo set helps you stand out in Greenville County feeds and creates momentum from day one.
Time your shoot by season
Upstate South Carolina has a humid subtropical climate that changes your exterior look through the year. Spring brings lush landscaping but also heavy pollen, so plan a wash and window cleaning before the shoot. Summer offers long daylight, so book early morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh shadows. Fall color often peaks mid October into early November and can add warmth and texture to curb shots. Winter lawns can go dormant, so lean into interior light and greenery, and avoid holiday decor that timestamps the photos.
Exterior checklist: curb appeal
A clean, bright exterior earns the click. Tackle these basics before the photographer arrives:
- Mow, edge, weed, and trim shrubs. Rake leaves in fall and remove pollen dust in spring.
- Pressure wash driveways and walkways. Remove oil spots, toys, and unused vehicles.
- Refresh the front door and hardware if worn. Add a simple doormat and tidy, neutral porch decor.
- Clear roof and gutters of visible debris. Put away hoses, ladders, and flags not needed for staging.
- Wash windows and check that exterior lights work with matching bulbs.
- If you have a pool or patio, stage seating and remove covers so water and space show well.
Interior checklist: room by room
Buyers need to see space, light, and flow. Keep it simple and neutral.
Living areas
- Open blinds and curtains to pull in daylight.
- Edit furniture to show clear walkways and a focal point.
- Remove small rugs that chop up floors unless they add scale.
Kitchen
- Clear counters to one or two accents, like a bowl of fruit or a vase.
- Wipe appliances and sink until streak-free. Hide trash cans and cleaning tools.
- Remove refrigerator magnets and personal notes.
Bathrooms
- Stash personal items. Hang fresh, neutral towels.
- Clean mirrors, glass, and grout thoroughly.
Bedrooms
- Make beds with neutral linens and simple pillows.
- Edit extra furniture to show size and closet access.
Utility, basement, and bonus areas
- Clean and organize. If a space adds value, include it. If it cannot be staged, consider leaving it out of the primary set.
Light, color, and bulbs
Consistent lighting makes rooms look calm and inviting. Replace burned-out bulbs and match color temperature throughout, ideally in the 3000 to 4000K range for a natural look. Use daylight where it flatters the room, then turn on lamps for warm accents. Ask your photographer about balancing interior light with bright windows so views read clearly.
Pets and odors
On shoot day, remove pets and their gear. Clean bowls, litter boxes, and pet hair, and neutralize odors with a deep clean or odor control products. Many buyers are sensitive to smells and allergens, and photos cannot hide them at showings.
Pro photographer checklist
Hiring an experienced residential photographer in Greenville County pays off in both quality and speed. When you book, confirm:
- High-resolution, professionally edited images suitable for MLS and web.
- Properly blended HDR for bright windows and interior detail.
- Optional services like dusk exteriors, floor plans, 3D tours, and drone imagery.
- File sizes and aspect ratios that meet your local MLS rules. Ask for MLS-ready JPGs plus larger masters.
Must-have shots for MLS
For a typical Simpsonville single-family home, 20 to 40 photos usually tell the story without overwhelm. A strong core set often includes:
- Front exterior as the main image
- Front door and entry
- Living or family room from one to two angles
- Kitchen overview plus key features
- Primary bedroom and primary bath
- Secondary bedrooms and baths
- Dining area and any flex space or office
- Laundry, finished basement, or bonus rooms if marketable
- Backyard, patio, pool, and garage
- A dusk front exterior if available
- Neighborhood or nearby amenity photos when appropriate and permitted
Drone and aerial basics
Aerials can highlight lot size, location, and nearby amenities. Use only licensed operators who follow FAA Part 107 regulations and any local airspace notices. Respect privacy by avoiding images that capture neighbors or people without consent, and confirm HOA policies on drones and aerial photography before scheduling.
Logistics, HOA, and access
Plan the details so photo day runs smooth.
- Check your subdivision or HOA for rules on exterior appearance, flags, temporary decor, and the use of signs.
- Review any City of Simpsonville sign ordinances before placing directional signs.
- Coordinate safe parking so driveways are clear for photos.
- Ensure utilities are on and thermostats set to a comfortable level.
- Provide written consent for interior photos and any drone work. Set up a lockbox, smart lock, or meet the photographer to allow access.
Your 2 to 4 week prep timeline
A little planning keeps you on schedule and reduces stress.
- 2 to 4 weeks out: Deep clean, tackle minor repairs and paint touch-ups, and line up staging if needed. Verify HOA rules. Book your photographer and any extras like 3D tours or drone.
- 3 to 7 days out: Declutter and pack away nonessentials. Clean windows and carpets. Test every light bulb. Plan to remove cars and personal items from exterior views.
- Day of shoot: Final tidy, set the thermostat, turn on all lights, open blinds, remove people and pets, and give the photographer quiet time to work.
Day-of shoot checklist
- Turn on all lights and lamps. Leave ceiling fans off to prevent blur.
- Open blinds and curtains. Remove screens if your photographer requests it.
- Clear counters, make beds, hide trash cans and cords, and remove pet items.
- Sweep the porch, stage seating, and park cars offsite.
- Leave a short list of must-capture features for your photographer.
Avoid these common mistakes
- Leaving seasonal decor that dates the listing.
- Mismatched light bulbs that shift color room to room.
- Overpacking rooms with furniture that blocks sightlines.
- Skipping lawn care or leaving hoses, ladders, and bins in view.
- Forgetting HOA or city rules on signs and exterior changes.
Ready to list?
Great photos start with thoughtful preparation and a clear plan. If you want help coordinating staging, scheduling a pro photographer, and building a photo set that tells the right story for Simpsonville buyers, we’re here to guide every step. Connect with the team at Locke & Key Associates. Let’s talk about your home.
FAQs
How many photos should a Simpsonville listing include?
- Most single-family homes benefit from 20 to 40 images, depending on size and features. Confirm your local MLS photo limits before uploading.
Are twilight photos worth it for Simpsonville homes?
- Yes. A well-executed dusk exterior often increases online engagement and shows off exterior lighting and curb appeal. Schedule in advance and allow for extra setup.
Should I stage or use virtual staging for listing photos?
- Physical staging usually photographs best. Virtual staging can work for vacant homes, but disclose it and ensure images accurately represent the property.
Do I need a professional photographer in Greenville County?
- A professional with real estate experience typically delivers better composition, lighting, HDR blending, and faster turnaround than DIY options.
When is the best time of day to shoot in Simpsonville?
- In summer, aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh midday sun. Coordinate timing with your photographer for the best light.
Can I use drone photos of my property in Simpsonville?
- Yes, if a licensed operator follows FAA Part 107 rules and any HOA or local restrictions. Be mindful of privacy and avoid capturing neighbors without consent.
