Home Prep Checklist for Real Estate Photos
Send this page or the printable PDF to your sellers before the shoot. A prepared home photographs brighter and cleaner, and it means no reshoots. Most homes take about an hour to prep.
The day beforeDeclutter, clean and make beds.
An hour beforeLights on, blinds open, cars moved.
During the shootAbout 1 hour for photos, 2 with video. We can move small items for you.
Room by Room
Work through each card. The more you do, the better the photos.
Whole house
- Turn on every light and lamp, and replace burned-out bulbs
- Open all blinds and curtains
- Turn off ceiling fans and TVs
- Hide pet bowls, beds, toys and litter boxes
- Remove family photos and personal items
- Close toilet lids and closet doors
Kitchen
- Clear counters except one or two decor pieces
- Remove magnets and papers from the fridge
- Hide dish soap, sponges, towels and trash cans
- Put away small appliances
- Clean stovetop and sink
Living and dining
- Fluff and straighten pillows and throws
- Clear coffee tables and side tables
- Hide remotes, chargers and cords
- Push in dining chairs evenly
- Remove clutter from bookshelves
Bedrooms
- Make beds with smooth, neutral bedding
- Clear nightstands except a lamp
- Hide clothes, shoes and laundry baskets
- Close closet doors
Bathrooms
- Clear counters, showers and tubs of products
- Hang matching, folded towels or remove them
- Remove bath mats and toilet rugs
- Hide trash cans and plungers
- Close toilet lids
Outside and drone
- Move cars out of the driveway and off the street in front
- Put away hoses, tools, toys and trash bins
- Mow, sweep walkways and clear leaves
- Open patio umbrellas, straighten outdoor furniture
- Turn on porch and landscape lights
Heavy items and staging
We'll move small items during the shoot, but heavy furniture should be in place before we arrive. If a room is empty, ask about virtual staging for $35 a photo.
Home Ready? Book the Shoot.
Pick a package and a time online. Photos arrive in 24 hours or less.