Pre-Shoot Checklist

Exterior

• Remove vehicles from driveway and away from the front of the home.

• Place trash cans and anything that is not attached to the home out of sight.

• Cut, rake, water grass, and remove any unsightly weeds or vegetation.

• Clean windows.

• Organize deck furniture, uncover grill, open patio umbrella, etc.

• Sweep or pressure wash driveway if necessary.

• Make sure yard is free of kid’s toys, evidence of pets, unnecessary clutter etc.

Interior

General

• Replace any burnt lightbulbs and ensure all bulbs are the same color temperature.

• Remove as much clutter as possible, especially personal belongings that are not included in the sale. Decluttered and tidy makes a bigger difference than “spotless”.

• Put away unsightly door mats and remove area rugs that might be hiding nice flooring like hardwood or tile. 

• Remove all evidence of pets.

• Open up blinds and remove any fixed window coverings that block natural light.

• Turn off all TVs, computer screens, and ceiling fans.

• Conceal power cords; unplug them if necessary (except lights).

• Put all shoes away.

• Make sure there are no clothes in the machines or hanging in the laundry room.

• Make beds, straighten picture frames/artwork, organize pillows, etc.

• Avoid hiding items under beds or furniture.

• Remove any personal information that you wouldn’t want visible online.

Kitchen

• Clear all counter tops – a few small appliances, fruit bowls, plants etc. are ok, but avoid anything tall that might be distracting or block the view.

• Clear the fridge completely – remove all magnets, photos, lists, etc.

• Clean appliances – be sure to remove all fingerprints, smudges, etc.

• Put trash can away.

• Make sure sink is clean and free of dishes.

• Put away dish soap, cloths, etc.

• Remove calendars as they can date a listing.

• Straighten bar stools and table chairs.

Bathrooms

• Put toilet lids down.

• Clear counter of all personal belongings.

• Clean mirrors.

• Open shower curtains – remove all bottles, razors, soap, etc.

• Place a fresh roll of toilet paper on the holder.

• Remove toilet brush and trash can.

  Best Practices to Consider

• Feel free to do a walkthrough with the photographer upon arrival but avoid following them around during the shoot.

• If you have limited space, consider designating a secondary room for temporary storage ahead of time rather than trying to move items from room to room while the photographer is on site.

• Make sure pets are out of the home or kenneled.

• Don’t rush your photographer – Great images are critical when marketing a home for sale, so we appreciate your patience.