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HOME PREP

–   Real Estate Media   –

Home Prep

Before the Shoot

A clean, uncluttered home photographs larger, brighter, and more inviting. Please complete the checklist below before your scheduled photo or video session.

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General (All Rooms)

  • Remove clutter from floors, counters, and surfaces
  • Hide personal items (family photos, mail, paperwork)
  • Clear refrigerator fronts (magnets, notes, photos)
  • Remove excess furniture to open up the space
  • Replace burnt‑out light bulbs (full replacement to daylight bulbs is highly recommended)
  • Turn all lights ON before the shoot (There are cases when lights off will showcase the property better.)
  • Open blinds and curtains (unless glare is an issue)
  • Vacuum carpets and rugs, Clean floors
  • Clean mirrors and windows

Living Room / Common Areas

  • Straighten furniture and rugs
  • Minimize throw pillows and décor
  • Hide remotes, cords, and electronics
  • Clear coffee tables and side tables
  • Keep shelves simple and tidy

Kitchen

  • Clear countertops (leave 1–2 decorative items max)
  • Remove dish racks, sponges, soaps, and paper towels
  • Clean sink, faucet, and appliance fronts
  • Hide trash cans
  • Straighten bar stools and chairs

Bedrooms

  • Make beds neatly (neutral bedding works best)
  • Clear nightstands (lamp + one décor item only)
  • Remove items from floors and under beds
  • Store laundry baskets out of sight
  • Close closet doors unless instructed otherwise

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Bathrooms

  • Clear all counters completely
  • Close toilet lids
  • Remove bath mats unless coordinated
  • Hang fresh, neutral towels
  • Clean mirrors, sinks, and shower doors

Office / Flex Spaces

  • Remove paperwork and visible cords
  • Neatly arrange desk and chair
  • Minimize décor
  • Turn off monitors unless staged intentionally

Laundry / Utility Rooms

  • Put away detergents and supplies
  • Clear machine tops
  • Tidy shelves and corners

Exterior & Entry

  • Remove cars from driveway and street in front of home
  • Mow and edge the landscaping
  • Trim bushes and trees (if time allows)
  • Move trash bins, hoses, toys, and tools out of view
  • Sweep / blow walkways, porches, and entry areas
  • Straighten outdoor furniture
  • Straighten pillows
  • Pick up pet waste
  • Turn on exterior lights if shooting at dusk

Pets

  • Secure pets during the shoot
  • Remove pet beds, bowls, toys, and litter boxes
  • Pick up pet waste

Final Walk‑Through (Just Before Arrival)

  • Do a quick check of every room
  • Turn all lights ON
  • Turn ceiling fans OFF
  • Set thermostat to a comfortable temperature

Extra Credit (if time allows)

  • Change all lightbulbs in the home to a 5,200K or 5,600K white LED (aka daylight)
  • Trim bushes, shrubs and trees
  • Apply fresh bark mulch
  • Add fresh flowers or plants
  • Fresh paint (white is ideal)
  • Professionally stage the home
  • Clean pool if applicable and make sure all fixtures work such as pool lights and water features
  • Spray Wash hard exterior surfaces