Clean & declutter
Clear floors and surfaces, put away everyday clutter and finish cleaning before the appointment begins.
Photo shoot preparation
How to Prepare Your Home for Real Estate Photography
A little preparation makes a major difference. Use this checklist before the appointment so the photographer can focus on creating clean, bright listing images instead of moving personal items or waiting for rooms to be finished.
Before the photographer arrives
The whole-home checklist.
Check every light
Replace burned-out bulbs and turn on interior lights so rooms are ready when photography starts.
Open window coverings
Open curtains and blinds neatly to bring in natural light and show the view where appropriate.
Protect private information
Remove mail, family documents, prescription labels and anything you do not want visible in listing photos.
Plan for pets
Secure pets safely away from the areas being photographed and put away bowls, beds, toys and litter boxes when possible.
Confirm access
Make sure doors, gates and important spaces can be accessed. Share parking, lockbox or entry instructions in advance.
Room by room
Finish the details buyers notice.
Kitchen
- Clear counters of dishes, food and small clutter.
- Empty the sink and put away dish soap and towels that look distracting.
- Remove magnets, papers and personal items from the refrigerator when practical.
- Straighten stools, chairs and visible accessories.
Living areas & bedrooms
- Make beds neatly and arrange pillows.
- Straighten furniture and remove excess cords or small personal items.
- Clear nightstands, desks and coffee tables.
- Open curtains or blinds consistently.
Bathrooms
- Clear counters and shower products.
- Close toilet lids.
- Hang clean, coordinated towels neatly.
- Wipe mirrors, sinks and fixtures.
Exterior
- Move trash and recycling bins out of primary views.
- Remove hoses, toys and loose tools where possible.
- Park vehicles away from the front of the property when practical.
- Open patio umbrellas and straighten outdoor furniture if it improves the space.
Final 15 minutes
One last walk-through.
Walk through the property as if you were seeing it for the first time. Look for anything temporary, personal or distracting that you would not want in the listing.
✓Lights on
✓Curtains and blinds open
✓Counters clear
✓Beds made
✓Toilet lids closed
✓Pets secured
Ready for the shoot
Now the property is ready to photograph.
If you still need to schedule, send the address, approximate square footage and preferred date.