Checklist

Home Prep List

← Back to Resources

To ensure your home looks its absolute best on listing day, please complete the following before our arrival.

General

  • Turn all lights ON (lamps, exterior lights, closet lights, cabinet lights, etc.)
  • Turn ceiling fans OFF
  • Open all curtains to allow maximum natural light
  • Keep blinds down but rotated to fully open position
  • Replace any burnt-out light bulbs
  • Hide cords, chargers, and visible wires
  • Remove personal photos and highly personal décor
  • Secure pets or remove from property during shoot
  • Hide pet bowls, toys, crates, litter boxes

Note: We do not photograph standard closets or garages (unless requested) — these may be used for temporary storage.

Kitchen

  • Remove all towels, mats, and rugs
  • Clear countertops as much as possible (minimal, intentional décor only)
  • Remove soap bottles, sponges, drying racks from sink
  • Hide trash cans
  • Remove magnets, papers, and items from refrigerator
  • Remove small appliances unless staged intentionally (air fryers, toasters, etc.)
  • Straighten bar stools and dining chairs
  • Clean stainless steel (no fingerprints)

Bathrooms

  • Remove all personal items (toothbrushes, razors, products, etc.)
  • Remove bath mats and rugs
  • Remove all shower items (bottles, loofahs, etc.)
  • Hide trash cans, tissue boxes, toilet brushes
  • Close toilet lids
  • Straighten towels (fresh, neutral towels if possible)
  • Clean mirrors thoroughly (no streaks)

Note: We typically do not photograph separate toilet rooms — these are great storage spots during prep.

Living Room

  • Remove remotes, chargers, tissue boxes
  • Remove excessive décor
  • Hide pet beds and toys
  • Straighten pillows and blankets

Bedrooms

  • Make beds neatly (neutral bedding photographs best)
  • Remove clutter from dressers, nightstands, desks
  • Hide laundry hampers
  • Remove personal photos
  • Kids' rooms: organize toys neatly or store them to maximize space

Exterior

  • Remove vehicles from driveway and street view
  • Close all garage doors
  • Remove trash/recycling bins from sight
  • Blow off leaves/debris from driveway, sidewalk, patio
  • Open patio umbrellas
  • Remove grill/furniture covers
  • Straighten outdoor cushions
  • Mow lawn (seasonal)
  • Trim overgrown bushes near windows/entry
  • Clear snow (winter)

Optional Luxury Touches

These small details elevate perception:

  • Fresh flowers in kitchen or entry
  • Set dining table lightly (simple, elegant)
  • Turn on fireplace (if gas and safe)
  • Add a neutral throw blanket
  • Turn on pool / water features (if applicable)
⬇︎  Download the printable PDF

Print it out or share it with your sellers before shoot day.