The photographer is coming on

 Friday, we were sent a list of things to do before they arrive. 

I have just copied and pasted the email: 

The photographer has a precise schedule to follow and has been given a specific amount of time to shoot according to the package we ordered. To ensure the creative process is not disturbed and for best photographic results, please have this list completed PRIOR to the photographer’s arrival, and plan in advance a bedroom or office for you (and children/pets) to hang out during the shoot.

 

The photographer’s schedule does not allow for time to move items from room to room during the shoot, wait for this list to be completed, nor can the photographer help move furniture for liability reasons. If you are not home for the shoot, they will turn the lights on and off upon completion.

 

Whole House:

• Turn ON all of the lights and lamps and check for burnt-out bulbs 
• Blinds and shutters adjusted open to let light in. You can lift your blinds all the way up as well
• Turn OFF all ceiling fan blades as they will show blurred in the picture
• Hide stacks of papers/bills/magazines
• Kids toys in storage containers
• Clean all windows of streaks and dirt
• Remove pet carriers, crates, pet dishes, and visible litter boxes from sight

Bathrooms: 

• Remove ALL items from bathroom countertops – exceptions can be decorative items
• Towels hung straight and remove towels/bathrobes on hooks
• Put the Toilet Seats DOWN
• Remove Bath rugs 
• Remove the Shower of Shampoos, Soaps, etc.. – you can hide inside the tub

Kitchens:

• Remove ALL items from kitchen countertops/islands – exceptions are decorative items
• Remove EVERYTHING from the outside of the Refrigerator
• Dish Towels/Sponges put away
• Hide trash can and remove rugs

Bedrooms:

• Remove ALL items from table/countertops – exceptions are lamps/decorative items
• Make Beds and straighten pillows
• Hide trash cans and diaper genies!

Living and Dining Areas:

• Remove all personal items/remotes from tabletops and open shelving – exceptions are decorative items
• Straighten pillows, chairs, blankets/throws

Outside:

• Remove your car(s) from the driveway
• Mow the lawn and mulch if necessary
• Remove ALL lawn equipment, debris, recycle and trash cans from sight 
• Roll up water hoses and hide sprinkler attachments
• Open patio umbrellas

I am exhausted again just reading that list! I will be more than happy once the house is on the market and sold. It has been depersonalised to such an extent that it barely feels like our house anymore. I admit I was surprised they didn't request we remove all the artwork on the walls. That would have been a real pain.

Our trip to Scotland has been booked. In three weeks, we will be chasing rainbows in the hope that we can find a house in the two weeks we have allotted ourselves.