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How to Prep Your Home for a Photoshoot (Checklist for Sellers)

Updated: May 7


Luxury Real Estate Exterior Professional Photography

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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