Property Prep Checklist
How to prepare a property for the best photos
Before the Shoot
Great photos start with great preparation. Follow this checklist to ensure your listing looks its best.
Exterior
- - Mow the lawn and trim edges
- - Remove trash cans, hoses, and garden tools
- - Clean the driveway and walkways
- - Power wash if needed
- - Add potted plants or flowers at entrance
- - Clean windows (exterior)
- - Remove cars from driveway
- - Turn on landscape lighting (for twilight shoots)
Interior - General
- - Declutter all surfaces (counters, tables, shelves)
- - Remove personal items (family photos, kids' artwork)
- - Hide trash cans, cleaning supplies, toilet brushes
- - Replace burned-out light bulbs
- - Turn on all lights
- - Open blinds and curtains
- - Remove floor mats and area rugs if worn
- - Put away pet items (bowls, beds, toys)
Kitchen
- - Clear all countertops (small appliances OK)
- - Remove magnets and papers from fridge
- - Hide dish soap and sponges
- - Clean sink and faucet
- - Put away dish rack
- - Wipe down cabinet fronts
- - Stage with fruit bowl or flowers
Bathrooms
- - Remove all personal items from counters
- - Hide shampoo bottles from shower
- - Put down toilet lids
- - Hang fresh, matching towels
- - Remove bath mats
- - Clean mirrors
Bedrooms
- - Make beds with crisp linens
- - Fluff and arrange pillows
- - Clear nightstands
- - Hide laundry baskets
- - Open closet doors only if very organized
- - Remove under-bed storage
Day of Shoot
- - Turn on ALL lights (including closets)
- - Turn off TVs
- - Turn off ceiling fans
- - Close toilet lids
- - Remove vehicles from driveway
- - Secure pets
- - Give photographer access (lockbox code, etc.)