real estate photo shoot
homeowners Prep List

By far the most critical way to prepare a home to have the best real estate photos possible is to de-clutter and minimize. A little dust on the mantle and baseboards is not nearly as noticeable in photos as clutter on countertops or stacks of books & toys. Less really is more!

Thoroughly preparing a home by following the recommended tasks below prior to the photographer’s arrival will help ensure a smooth, timely photo shoot and high quality photos.

  • interior

    • Vacuum, sweep & mop floors.

    • Dust blinds & baseboards.

    • Clean windows inside & out.

    • Clear & wipe down countertops.

    • Remove personal items / photos.

    • Put away all visible clutter (mail, jackets, bags, etc.)

    • Replace burned out light bulbs.

    • Empty waste baskets & hide larger trash cans.

  • Exterior

    • Sweep walkways.

    • Pick up leaves, sticks, branches, etc.

    • Put away outdoor toys & any seasonal decor.

    • Store garden tools, supplies, hoses, etc.

    • Straighten / arrange outdoor furniture.

    • Clean pool & surrounding area (debris, toys, etc.).

    • Mow & remove all weeds.

    • Maintain landscaping (ex: trim shrubbery).

  • Kitchen & Dining

    • Remove all items from refrigerator doors.

    • Store all food away in pantry or cabinets.

    • De-clutter the countertops, island, stove area, etc.

    • Organize / stage items on open shelves.

    • Straighten & push in all barstools & dining chairs.

    • Keep the dining table & island décor minimal.

    .• Store away any visible trash cans, broom, mop, etc.

    • Leave only 1-2 appliances on the counter.

  • Living Room

    • Put away magazines, mail, loose papers, etc.

    • De-clutter mantel, coffee table, cabinets, etc.

    • Clean interior of the fireplace.

    • Fluff & arrange couch & chair pillows.

    • Store away any toys.

  • Bedrooms

    • Make all the beds & arrange pillows.

    • Put away all clothing & shoes.

    • Make sure nothing is visible under the bed.

    • Clear clutter on nightstands, desks, dressers, etc.

    • Store away any chargers (phone, watch, computer, etc.)

    • Take down any personalized names &/or photos.

    • Remove any wall stickers, posters, etc.

    • Store away diaper genies.

    • Store away any portable fans, heaters, trash bins, etc.

  • Bathrooms

    • Hang up fresh towels (preferably white)

    • Clear off toiletries, jewelry, medications, etc.

    • Clean mirrors.

    • Clean toilets.

    • Clear all items from tubs & showers.

    • Store away trash bins, scales, cleaning tools, etc.

  • Laundry Room, Closets & Pets

    • Hide any visible dirty laundry.

    • Put away all jackets, bags, umbrellas, etc.

    • Remove any visible clutter.

    • Remove pet hair from furniture, pillows, carpet, etc.

    • Clean up all pet waste in the backyard.

  • Additional Staging tips

    • Hang fresh white towels where appropriate.

    • Display a bowl of fruit or fresh flowers in the kitchen.

    • Use the same temp. of lightbulbs in every room.

    • Use light or white bedding in the primary bedroom.

  • Final Must-Do's

    • Remove clutter from countertops, benches, hooks, etc. 

    • Turn OFF all TVs & computer screens.

    • Open all shades / blinds.

    • Turn ON all lamps & overhead lights (ceiling fans OFF)

    •. Close garage doors.

    •. Clear sink of any dishes.

    • Close toilet lids in all bathrooms.

    • Contain pet(s) in a crate in a non-visible area or outside.

    • Store away food & water bowls.

    • Move vehicles out of the driveway & front of the house.