Preparing Your Home for a Real Estate Photo Shoot: A Comprehensive Checklist

As a real estate photographer and videographer, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to prepare a home for a photo shoot. A well-prepared home can make all the difference in showcasing its best features and attracting potential buyers. In this post, we’ll go over a comprehensive checklist to help you prepare your home for a successful photo shoot.

Exterior

• Lawn and Landscaping:

  • Mow the lawn and trim any overgrown bushes or trees

  • Add some colorful plants or flowers to enhance curb appeal

• Exterior Cleaning:

  • Power wash the siding, windows, and doors

  • Clean any outdoor furniture or decorations

• Outdoor Lighting:

  • Turn on all outdoor lights, including pathway lights and porch lights

  • Replace any burnt out bulbs

  • Consider adding some extra outdoor lighting to highlight key features

Interior

• Decluttering:

  • Remove any clutter, toys, or personal items

  • Keep surfaces clean and tidy

• Lighting:

  • Turn on all interior lights, including lamps and ceiling fixtures

  • Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light

• Staging:

  • Arrange furniture to create a welcoming and open feel

  • Add some decorative touches, such as vases, throw pillows or blankets

Kitchen

• Counters and Sink:

  • Clear off countertops and declutter sink areas

  • Add some fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit

• Appliances:

  • Clean and polish all appliances

  • Remove any magnets or notes from the fridge

• Cabinets:

  • Organize and tidy up cabinets and drawers

Bathrooms

• Counters and Sinks:

  • Clear off countertops and declutter sink areas

  • Add some fresh towels and toiletries

  • Clean and polish the faucet

• Showers and Bathtubs:

  • Clean and scrub away any soap scum or mildew

  • Add some decorative touches, such as a bath mat or shower curtain

  • Declutter shower by stowing away soap bottles and other items

  • Clean and polish the faucet(s)

• Toilets:

  • Make sure all toilet lids are in closed/down position

Bedrooms

• Bedding:

  • Make the bed with fresh, clean linens

  • Add some decorative pillows and throws

• Closets:

  • Organize and tidy up closets and drawers

  • Remove any clutter or personal items

• Dressers and Nightstands:

  • Clear off surfaces and declutter drawers

Additional Tips

• Remove any personal photos or items

• Take down any calendars or notes

• Make sure all lighting is functioning, replace burnt out bulbs including stove/microwave bulbs

• Hide any trash cans or recycling bins in a garage or closet

• Make sure furniture/decorations do not block the view looking from the doorway, such as in a bedroom or bathroom

• Consider adding some fresh, short flowers on tables/counters or basic plants in empty corners to enhance overall appeal

By following this comprehensive checklist, you’ll be able to showcase your home in its best light and attract potential buyers. Remember, a well-prepared home can make all the difference in a successful sale!