Real Estate Preparation Guide

Real Estate Photography Preparation Guide

Please follow the checklist below to prepare your home for the best possible presentation and photoshoot. Remember that we are not professional stagers or interior designers, so be sure your property looks better than ever. We cannot change or clean anything upon arrival.

GENERAL

❏ Remove as much clutter as possible. Store all excess in the garage.
❏ Replace all burned-out light bulbs and match color temperatures in multi-bulb fixtures.

❏ Clean all windows inside and outside.
❏ Remove or hide all personal items such as family photos, paperwork, and bills.
❏ Tidy/hide all power cords/cables.
❏ Vacuum carpets and rugs. Sweep hard surfaces.
❏ Minimize items on tables and surfaces in every room.
❏ Clean ceiling fans.
❏ Hide any seasonal decorations.

LIVING ROOM / FAMILY ROOM

❏ Put all remotes away.
❏ Tidy or remove all toys, fans, and game consoles.
❏ Arrange DVDs, games, and books neatly on shelves.

❏ Remove stacks of magazines, paper, mail, etc.

KITCHEN

❏ Put away all dishes, cutlery, and food.
❏ Remove all large or bulky countertop appliances.
❏ Clean backsplash and range hoods, especially stainless steel.
❏ Clear the sink and hide all detergents, dishcloths, and dish-draining racks.
❏ Remove all objects from the refrigerator, such as pictures and magnets.

❏ Remove pet bowls.

DINING ROOM

❏ Straighten the dining chairs at the table.
❏ Add a centerpiece or vase of flowers (not too large).

❏ Place settings are optional.

BEDROOMS

❏ Make beds with coverings pulled tight and smoothed out.

❏ Arrange and/or fluff pillows neatly.
❏ Remove toys, books, games, and tissue boxes.
❏ Remove all personal items.

❏ Ensure bedside lamps are working.

❏ Remove posters/stickers from walls.

❏ Clear away all clothes and hampers.

BATHROOMS

❏ Clean the tub and shower area and remove all soaps, shampoos, razors, etc.

❏ Clear counters for all toothbrushes, razors, hair dryers, etc.
❏ Make sure the glass and mirrors are spotless.
❏ Remove all non-matching towels.

❏ Make sure the toilet roll is not empty.
❏ Hide waste baskets and toilet cleaning tools (plunger and brushes).

OUTDOOR AREAS

❏ Mow the lawn and trim hedges.
❏ Rake leaves and sweep walkways and driveway.
❏ Remove all gardening equipment, such as hoses, rakes, and wheelbarrows.

❏ Remove weeds from any prominent areas.
❏ Straighten and arrange deck or patio furniture.

POOLS AND SPAS

❏ Ensure the pool is clean and uncovered.

❏ Remove all pool cleaners and poles.

❏ Remove all pool toys.
❏ Keep the Spa cover on.

1 HR BEFORE PHOTOSHOOT

❏ Close all windows.
❏ Open all window and door shades/blinds. If louvered blinds, turn the blades horizontally.
❏ Turn all interior lights ON.
❏ Turn all exterior lights ON except for spotlights.
❏ Turn ceiling fans OFF.
❏ Turn TVs and computer screens OFF.
❏ All pets should be out of sight. I love pets, but animals should not be included in any photos.

❏ Close all toilet lids.
❏ Remove all vehicles from the driveway and front of the home.
❏ Hide trash cans from street view.

What to Expect for a Real Estate Photoshoot:

When I arrive, your home should be photo-ready. I hold a high standard for producing the best possible presentation for each listing. To maintain efficiency, I will focus all my attention on capturing a collection of photos carefully selected to present your home for sale. If there are a few specific aspects of the home you would like captured, let me know at the start of the photoshoot.

I look forward to photographing your home. Please reach out with any questions or concerns.