Q. I have recently heard of homeowners using their property as a Location Home and was thinking this may be a good opportunity to make some extra cash. I am told continuously by visitors that I have a spectacular home that looks like it’s just jumped out of a magazine shoot so I think I could be the right fit for this type of thing but I’m a little sceptical. Can you advise?
A. Location Homes are very popular these days, as film directors and magazine editors prefer not to use studios rather a real home on their projects. They can use location homes for a variety of stills and film shoots for designers, high street brands, interior and fashion magazines, celebrities, online retailers, shopping channels, commercials and TV dramas. Locations are also hired out for events such as PR launches etc. Many owners have done very well financially over the years, in some cases buying a second property abroad from the revenue or being able to pay off their mortgages early. Some people treat it as ‘pocket money’ for extra treats or luxuries they otherwise wouldn’t afford. But what makes a good location home? Large properties with space and natural light, features such as wooden floors, large windows, fireplaces, open plan living spaces with easy going owners. Access to the property is also important as well as parking. A Potential location owner should be prepared to open their home to a set of strangers (crews usually consist of a photographer, assistant, models, stylist, hair/makeup artist, Art Director, clients), and let them get on with their job. Some wear and tear is inevitable. For a busy location it’s worth getting a set of cheap mugs and crockery for the crew to use. The average day rate for hiring your property for shoots depends on what the shoot is for, usage, hours and number of people on the shoot makes a difference, the range is between £400 – £1,000 per day. Rates for filming for longer days (12 hours and up) can go up to £2,000 plus. There shouldn’t be too much disruption should you decide to get involved. Most clients just want to be shown around and settled in and then get on with their job. What they do really depends on the nature of the shoot. Most clients will need to move some furniture around to facilitate their shoot. For an interiors shoot at a location that allows decorating, clients will paint, wallpaper, put up curtains or blinds, shelving, build sets. It is re-instated at the end of the shoot making sure they use the same paint the location had.
If you think you have what it takes contact www.1st-option.com and who knows your home could be featuring somewhere amazing soon!