For sellers
Getting the home ready for photos
A little preparation makes the biggest difference in how a listing looks online. This list covers the essentials room by room. Most of it takes an hour or two the day before.
Throughout the home
- Turn on every light, including lamps and the lights inside the oven hood and closets.
- Open blinds and curtains fully. Leave ceiling fans off.
- Clear personal items: family photos, mail, medications, keys and anything with a name on it.
- Hide trash cans, pet bowls, litter boxes and cleaning supplies.
- Make sure every bulb works and matches in color where you can.
Kitchen
- Clear the counters, leaving one or two decorative pieces at most.
- Remove dish towels, sponges, soap and magnets from the refrigerator door.
- Put away small appliances you do not use every day.
Bathrooms
- Close toilet lids and clear the counters.
- Hang fresh, matching towels, or put towels away.
- Remove shampoo, razors and toothbrushes from the shower and sink.
Bedrooms
- Make the beds with smooth covers and plumped pillows.
- Clear nightstands and dressers.
- Close closet doors.
Living areas
- Straighten cushions and throws, and put away remotes, toys and cords where possible.
- Turn TVs off.
- Open interior doors so rooms connect in the photos.
Outside
- Move cars off the driveway and away from the front of the house.
- Put away hoses, bins, tools and toys.
- Mow, sweep the walkways and clear leaves from the entry.
- Turn on porch and exterior lights, especially for twilight shoots.
On the day
- Plan for the home to be empty, or for everyone to move with us room to room.
- Secure pets, or take them out for the visit.
- If we will use a lockbox, make sure the code and any alarm details are in your booking.