Property Preparation Guide
Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your property looks its absolute best for your photography session
Pro Tip
Professional photography can increase your listing views by up to 118% and help your property sell faster. Taking the time to properly prepare your property is one of the best investments you can make in your listing success.
Essential Preparation Tips
Schedule During Daylight Hours
Natural light is crucial for stunning photos. Book your session between 10 AM and 4 PM for the best lighting conditions.
Declutter Every Room
Remove personal items, excess furniture, and clutter. Clean countertops, tables, and floors. Remember: less is more in real estate photography.
Turn On All Lights
Turn on every light in the house, including lamps, overhead lights, and accent lighting. Open all blinds and curtains to maximize natural light.
Stage Key Areas
Stage the living room, master bedroom, and kitchen. Add fresh flowers, fluff pillows, and arrange furniture to create inviting spaces.
Deep Clean Everything
Clean windows, mirrors, and glass surfaces. Vacuum all floors and carpets. Wipe down countertops, appliances, and fixtures until they shine.
Remove People and Pets
Ensure all occupants and pets are out of the home during the shoot. Put away pet bowls, toys, and litter boxes.
Room-by-Room Checklist
Kitchen
- Clear all countertops completely
- Hide small appliances (toaster, coffee maker, etc.)
- Empty and clean the sink
- Remove magnets and papers from refrigerator
- Clean inside and outside of appliances
- Replace any burnt-out light bulbs
Bathrooms
- Remove all personal hygiene products
- Hide toilet brushes and plungers
- Replace old towels with fresh, matching sets
- Clean mirrors and fixtures until spotless
- Close toilet lids
- Add a decorative touch (fresh flowers or rolled towels)
Bedrooms
- Make beds with fresh, wrinkle-free linens
- Remove personal photos and items
- Clear nightstands except for 1-2 decorative items
- Organize closets (doors may be photographed open)
- Hide cords and electronics
- Fluff pillows and straighten bedding
Living Areas
- Arrange furniture to maximize space
- Remove excess furniture if rooms feel crowded
- Straighten pillows and throws
- Clear coffee tables except for 1-2 decorative items
- Hide remote controls and gaming controllers
- Add fresh flowers or plants
Exterior
- Mow the lawn and trim hedges
- Remove garden hoses and tools
- Clean the driveway and walkways
- Put away garbage bins
- Remove vehicles from driveway
- Add potted plants or flowers to entrance
Preparation Timeline
1 Week Before
- Schedule a deep cleaning service if needed
- Order any staging items or fresh flowers
- Plan to have all repairs completed
- Coordinate with all occupants about the shoot day
1-2 Days Before
- Do a final deep clean of the entire property
- Stage all rooms according to the checklist
- Test all light bulbs and replace any that are burnt out
- Mow lawn and complete exterior maintenance
Day of Shoot
- Turn on all lights 30 minutes before arrival
- Open all blinds and curtains
- Do a final walk-through with the checklist
- Ensure all people and pets leave the property
- Have garage doors ready to open if requested
Questions About Preparation?
We're here to help! If you have any questions about preparing your property for the shoot, don't hesitate to reach out. We want your photos to look amazing.
What If I Can't Complete Everything?
Don't stress! We understand that preparing a property can be overwhelming. Do your best to follow this guide, and we'll work with what we have. Our photographers are skilled at capturing the best angles and features of your property. If you need help with staging or have specific concerns, let us know in advance and we'll provide guidance.