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Preparing Your Home

This guide is designed to help you understand the key steps to make your home look its absolute best. A clean, well-organized home ensures your property shines in the photos. By following these instructions as closely as possible, you’ll ensure your home looks fantastic when it’s listed. Below is a detailed checklist to help you get your home photo-ready.

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EVERY ROOM

  • Declutter all rooms.

  • Mop, vacuum, and dust.

  • Wipe down surfaces and countertops.

  • Clean windows, removing fingerprints.

  • Ensure all light bulbs work and match in color.

  • Open curtains and blinds for natural light.

  • Remove excess decorations and personal items.

  • Hide cords, power strips, and clutter.

  • Dust furniture, baseboards, and vents.

  • Wipe door handles and light switches.

  • Touch up wall scuffs.

  • Fluff pillows and straighten decor.

  • Remove pet bowls, toys, and beds.

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KITCHEN

  • Wipe cabinets, removing grease and splatters.

  • Clean stainless steel appliances.

  • Remove fridge magnets, photos, and clutter.

  • Store dish rags, towels, and supplies.

  • Keep the sink empty and clean.

  • Remove excess decorations.

  • Hide cords and power strips.

  • Clean stovetop and oven door.

  • Remove dish soap, sponges, and clutter.

  • Organize visible pantry shelves.

  • Set the dining table with neutral decor.

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BEDROOMS

  • Make beds and fluff pillows.

  • Put away clothes and toys.

  • Hide hampers and trash cans.

  • Organize shelves and tidy wires.

  • Clear nightstands and bedside tables.

  • Remove posters that aren’t neutral.

  • Adjust blinds and curtains for good lighting.

  • Remove personal items (photos, jewelry, perfume).

  • Smooth out bedding.

  • Close closets or keep them neat.

    • Your photographer will not take pictures of closets unless specifically requested by the homeowner.​

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BATHROOMS

  • Scrub sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers.

  • Clean mirrors and remove streaks.

  • Store toiletries, toothbrushes, and personal items.

  • Use fresh, neutral towels.

  • Close toilet lids & shower curtains.

    • ​Your photographer will likely keep the curtain closed when taking photos, however, if you have a bathroom with elegant/tile walls or a larger jacuzzi-style tub, your photographer may include those in the photos.

  • Remove bath mats unless clean/new.

  • Wipe shower doors and remove water stains.​

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LIVING AND FAMILY ROOMS

  • Put away blankets and arrange pillows.

  • Organize toys.

  • Hide remotes, pet items, and clutter.

  • Clean and stage the fireplace.

  • Dust and wipe down shelves and surfaces.

  • Arrange bookshelves neatly.

  • Consider removing some of the smaller pieces of furniture.

    • The room may appear more spacious.

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EXTERIOR & LANDSCAPING

  • Clean pet waste in front and back yards.

  • Mow lawn and trim edges.

  • Sweep decks and organize patio furniture.

  • Move trash bins out of sight.

  • Store garden hoses, toys, and decorations.

  • Clean the pool, open the cover, and store accessories.

  • Power wash driveway, sidewalks, and entryway.

  • Add fresh mulch or potted plants.

  • Remove cobwebs from entryways, lights, and eaves.

  • Wipe down the front door and glass surfaces.

  • Ensure house numbers are clean and visible.

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PRIOR TO THE ARRIVAL OF YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER​

  • Turn on all lights and lamps.

  • Turn off ceiling fans.

  • Open blinds and curtains for natural light.

  • No vehicles should be parked in the driveway.

  • Store trash bins inside the garage.

  • If shooting at twilight, turn on exterior lights.

  • Adjust doors to highlight home layout.

  • Double-check for dust or smudges.

  • Remove last-minute clutter (mail, keys, papers).

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