Your listing photos will be working for you every night for years, so an hour of prep before the shoot is one of the best investments you can make. Here's how to get your rental camera-ready.
A day or two before
- Deep clean. Cameras pick up dust, streaks and fingerprints, especially on glass and stainless steel.
- Fix the small things. Replace burned-out bulbs, touch up scuffs and tighten loose hardware.
- Stage it like a guest just arrived. Fresh linens, folded towels, a few welcoming touches, and nothing that looks like your own stuff.
Bedrooms: show where everyone sleeps
- Make every bed with smooth, crisp bedding. White or light neutral bedding photographs best.
- Add decorative pillows and a throw, but keep it simple.
- Clear nightstands except a lamp, and open the blinds.
- Set up bunk beds, sofa beds and cribs so guests can see every sleeping option.
Kitchen and living areas
- Clear counters except a few styled items, like a bowl of fruit or a coffee setup.
- Hide dish soap, sponges, trash cans and cleaning supplies.
- Fluff the couch, straighten rugs and turn on lamps and the fireplace.
- Turn off TVs and ceiling fans.
Bathrooms
- Hang matching white towels and set out a few toiletries in a tidy row.
- Close the toilet lid and remove the bath mat.
- Clear the shower of personal products.
Amenities: this is your edge
In Colorado, amenities often decide the booking. Make sure they're ready to shine:
- Hot tub: uncovered, clean and running, with the lights on for twilight shots.
- Fire pit and patio: cushions out, chairs arranged, umbrellas open.
- Game room, gym or office: tidy and fully lit.
- Ski or bike storage: show it if you have it. It's a big selling point.
Outside
- Move cars out of the driveway, put trash bins away and clear walkways.
- Mow the lawn or shovel the snow, depending on the season.
- Turn on porch and landscape lights.
Why it's worth it
Airbnb reports that hosts with professional photos earn 21% more and get 19% more bookings than similar listings nearby. A well-prepared home is what lets those photos do their job. If you'd like, we can move small items during the shoot, and every one of our Airbnb packages includes free drone and a floor plan.
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