YOUR HOME WILL BE PHOTOGRAPHED AND FILMED FOR MARKETING ON MLS, SOCIAL MEDIA, AND REAL ESTATE WEBSITES. THESE IMAGES ARE OFTEN A BUYER’S FIRST IMPRESSION, SO PREPARING YOUR HOME PROPERLY WILL HELP IT LOOK BRIGHTER, LARGER, AND MORE INVITING.
COMPLETE THIS CHECKLIST BEFORE THE PHOTOGRAPHER ARRIVES
✅ WHOLE HOME CHECKLIST
✔️ Turn on all interior lights (replace burnt-out bulbs)
✔️ Open all blinds and curtains
✔️ Remove personal photos and sensitive items
✔️ Clear countertops and flat surfaces
✔️ Hide trash cans and pet items
✔️ Make beds neatly
✔️ Pick up items from floors
✔️ Turn off TVs and computer screens
✔️ Secure pets in another room or outside
Tip: Less clutter = bigger-looking rooms.
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🛋️ LIVING ROOM & COMMON AREAS
✔️ Straighten furniture and remove extra pieces if crowded
✔️ Fluff pillows and arrange neatly
✔️ Hide remote controls, cables, and toys
✔️ Remove blankets unless folded nicely
✔️ Clean windows and mirrors
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🍽️ KITCHEN
✔️ Clear countertops (no dishes, soap, sponges, or food)
✔️ Remove magnets and papers from refrigerator
✔️ Hide trash cans
✔️ Clean sink and appliances
✔️ Turn on all kitchen lights
Optional: A small plant or fruit bowl for staging
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🛏️ BEDROOMS
✔️ Make beds smooth and wrinkle-free
✔️ Clear nightstands (lamp + 1 décor item only)
✔️ Remove laundry baskets
✔️ Remove items under the bed
✔️ Take down personal photos
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🚿 BATHROOMS
✔️ Close toilet lids
✔️ Remove all toiletries
✔️ Hide trash cans
✔️ Clean mirrors and shower glass
✔️ Fold or remove towels
Optional: One neatly folded towel or plant
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🖥️ OFFICE / STUDY
✔️ Clear desk surface
✔️ Remove paperwork
✔️ Hide cords and cables
✔️ Turn off screens
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🧺 LAUNDRY ROOM
✔️ Put away detergents and baskets
✔️ Close washer and dryer doors
✔️ Wipe machines clean
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🌳 EXTERIOR (VERY IMPORTANT)
✔️ Mow lawn and trim bushes
✔️ Remove cars from driveway and in front of house
✔️ Remove trash bins
✔️ Sweep porch and walkway
✔️ Put away hoses and tools
✔️ Arrange patio furniture neatly
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🎥 DAY OF PHOTO & VIDEO SHOOT
✔️ Home must be fully ready before photographer arrives
✔️ All lights on
✔️ Blinds open
✔️ Ceiling fans off
✔️ Doors unlocked
✔️ Pets secured
✔️ No people in rooms being filmed
✔️ No TV or music playing
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🚫 PLEASE DO NOT
❌ Clean or move items during the shoot
❌ Leave clutter “just out of frame”
❌ Leave personal valuables visible
❌ Forget exterior areas (front & backyard count too!)
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⭐ FINAL TIPS FOR SUCCESS
• Think “model home,” not “lived-in home”
• Simple and clean looks best on camera
• Buyers decide in seconds based on photos
• Preparation = better photos = faster sale
