How to Prep Your Home for a Photoshoot (Checklist for Sellers)
- Katerine Giannikos
- May 6
- 3 min read
Updated: May 7
One of the most powerful tools to attract buyers is stunning, professional photos. A well-prepped home not only looks more appealing but can also help your listing stand out, sell faster, and potentially fetch a better price. But before the photographer arrives, some thoughtful preparation is key.
Here’s your ultimate checklist to get both the interior and exterior of your home photoshoot-ready!
Download your pre-shoot checklist to ensure a successful photoshoot for you and your photographer.
🏠 Interior Prep Checklist:
General Tips (Whole House):
Deep clean all surfaces — floors, countertops, baseboards, and windows should sparkle.
Depersonalize by removing family photos, names, and highly personal décor.
Turn on all lights — replace burnt-out bulbs and use matching color temperatures for a uniform look.
Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light.
Hide cords and wires — they can distract in photos.
Remove rugs that may cover beautiful floors (especially in living and dining rooms).
Touch up paint where needed, especially on baseboards and high-traffic walls.
Set thermostats to a comfortable temperature if it's during extreme seasons (buyers may visit after seeing photos).
Living Room:
Fluff and neatly arrange pillows and throws.
Clear off coffee tables and end tables — leave just one or two simple décor items.
Tuck away remotes, toys, and pet items.
Kitchen:
Clear off countertops completely (leave one or two decorative items like a bowl of fresh fruit).
Remove all magnets, papers, and calendars from the fridge.
Wipe down appliances until they shine.
Hide trash cans, dish racks, and cleaning supplies.
Wipe down sink so there is no watermarks or droplets visible.
Dining Room:
Set the table with simple, elegant place settings or a centerpiece.
Push chairs in evenly and straighten them.
You can also stage the dining table with cutlery and crockery to allow new home owners to envision themselves eating around the table with their family.
Bedrooms:
Make beds neatly with smooth bedding and fluffed pillows.
Remove personal items from nightstands.
Tuck away clothes, laundry baskets, toys and clutter.
Bathrooms:
Clear countertops of everything (toothbrushes, razors, soaps).
Hang fresh, neatly folded towels.
Close toilet lids.
Remove bath mats and trash cans for the shoot.
Polish mirrors and fixtures.
Office/Study:
Clear desks of paperwork and clutter.
Neatly organize shelves and tuck away cables.
If you have a laptop or computer, make sure it is turned off.
🌳 Exterior Prep Checklist:
Front Yard:
Mow the lawn and edge along sidewalks and driveways.
Trim bushes and trees to frame the house nicely.
Sweep walkways, porch, and driveway.
Remove cars from the driveway and don't park directly in front of the house.
Hide trash bins, hoses, and tools.
Add fresh mulch to garden beds and a pop of color with seasonal flowers.
Clean and polish the front door — it's the focal point!
Wash all exterior windows around the house
Turn on any exterior lighting for twilight shoots.
Backyard:
Mow and tidy up the lawn.
Stage outdoor furniture simply — cushions fluffed, tables clear.
Clean patios, decks, and pool areas.
Store away toys, garden tools, and pet items.
Remove pool covers and make sure the water looks clean and inviting.
Bonus Tips:
Pets: Keep them out of sight for the photos (and hide bowls, beds, and litter boxes).
Scent: Go neutral. Avoid strong scents that might suggest you're covering up odors.
Seasonal Décor: Keep it minimal to appeal to buyers year-round.
Download your pre-shoot checklist to ensure a successful photoshoot for you and your photographer.
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