Preparing Your Home For The Photo Shoot

Tips for All Areas

• Thoroughly clean the entire house (vacuum carpets, mop hard floors, clean countertops, and windows).

• Turn all overhead lights and lamps ON.

• Replace any burned-out light bulbs.

• Use bulbs of the same temperature (ALL incandescent or ALL compact fluorescent).

• Turn off ceiling fans.

• Turn off all TVs and computer screens.

• Open blinds or window treatments to let in natural light.

• Remove personal photographs or replace them with neutral artwork.

• Make all beds neatly.

• Remove small floor rugs to showcase the flooring.

• Store away all shoes and jackets in closets.

Front Yard

• Close garage doors.

• Remove cars from the driveway and in front of the home.

• Hide trash cans out of sight.

• Enhance landscaping by mowing, trimming shrubs, and clearing leaves.

• Remove empty planters.

• Sweep away cobwebs from eaves and door frames.

• Hide visible water hoses.

• Store away toys, sports equipment, and seasonal décor.

Backyard

• Clean patio furniture and outdoor seating areas.

• Ensure pillows and cushions look fresh, not faded.

• Remove kids’ toys, balls, frisbees, etc.

• Clean the pool.

• Hide pool vacuum and cleaning supplies.

• Turn on pool fountains or water features.

• Store away visible water hoses.

• Open all umbrellas to add a welcoming touch.

Kitchen

• Clear countertops completely remove knife blocks, baking supplies, and mail.

• Keep only one small appliance visible (e.g., coffee maker).

• Remove all magnets, papers, and photos from the refrigerator door.

• Hide garbage cans in the pantry or closet.

• Remove dishes from the sink and load the dishwasher.

Dining Room

• Remove all clutter from the table.

• Dust and polish the tabletop.

• Feature a single centerpiece, such as a vase with fresh flowers.

• Align all chairs neatly and space them evenly.

• Turn all overhead lights and lamps ON.

• Remove children’s high chairs or booster seats.

Living Room

• Turn on all lights and open blinds for natural light.

• Remove magazines, mail, and miscellaneous clutter.

• Declutter the fireplace mantel, leaving only 3-4 decorative items.

• Fluff and arrange pillows on sofas and chairs.

• Hide personal effects, including toys and remote controls.

Bedrooms

• Make the bed, including decorative pillows and shams.

• Smooth bed linens and straighten bed skirts.

• Remove personal items from nightstands.

• Store away charging cables and electronics.

• Clear clutter from dressers and nightstands.

Bathrooms

• Remove all personal care items from countertops (soap, toothbrushes, medications, deodorant, etc.).

• Close toilet lids.

• Shut closet doors.

• Store away shampoo, soap, and loofahs from showers and tubs.

• Display only fresh, unused towels.

• Remove floor mats.

Pets

• Hide food and water bowls in the pantry or closet.

• Store pet beds and toys out of sight.

• Use a lint roller to remove pet hair from furniture.

• Keep pets in a hidden crate or outside during the shoot.

• Ensure the backyard is free of pet waste and toys.

Conclusion

A well-prepared home ensures your listing photos make a great first impression. By following these steps, you’ll create a clean, bright, and inviting space that appeals to potential buyers or renters. High-quality photos can increase your chances of selling or renting your home quickly—so take the time to prepare properly.