📸 Listing Photo Preparation Guide
Step-by-step checklist to make every shot "scroll-stopping"
Why It Matters
Two-Week Countdown
| When | What to Tackle | Pro Tips |
|---|---|---|
| T-14 days | Deep clean & declutter whole house | Donate, store, or bin anything you don't want visible. Minimalism sells "space." |
| T-10 days | Minor repairs | Touch-up paint, tighten loose knobs, replace burnt bulbs—make all light temperatures match. |
| T-7 days | Curb-appeal sweep | Edge lawn, trim bushes, power-wash walkways, hide hoses, garbage & recycling bins. |
| T-3 days | Stage key rooms | Entry, kitchen, living room, primary bed & bath. Neutral throws, fresh towels, simple art. |
| T-1 day | Final surface shine | Vacuum lines in carpets photograph beautifully—think "hotel ready." |
Whole-House Checklist
🌟 Lighting & Windows
🏠 Floors & Surfaces
🎨 Walls & Décor
🌸 Scent & Sound
🧺 Grab-and-Go Bin Tip
Keep a small, lidded bin in every high-traffic zone—bathrooms and the kitchen especially.
Stash: toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, face wash, dish sponges, coffee pods, etc.
Why it works: When a last-minute showing pops up, sweep everything into the bin, snap the lid, and tuck it under the sink. Zero clutter in 30 seconds.
Room-by-Room Touch-Ups
🍳 Kitchen
✓ Do: Hide dish rack & soaps; place a bowl of green apples/lemon.
✗ Avoid: Countertop appliances, fridge magnets, dish towels
🛋️ Living Room
✓ Do: Symmetrical pillows; fold throws neatly.
✗ Avoid: Bulky pet beds, kids' toys, extra side tables
🛏️ Primary Bedroom
✓ Do: Hotel-style bedding; centered art over headboard.
✗ Avoid: Laundry hampers, visible phone chargers
🛁 Bathrooms
✓ Do: New white towels; clear counters; close toilet lids.
✗ Avoid: Floor rugs, personal toiletries, toilet brushes
🧸 Kids' Rooms
✓ Do: One staged shelf/basket of toys; simple bedding.
✗ Avoid: Cartoon posters, name decals, laundry piles
💻 Home Office
✓ Do: Hide cables; leave one closed laptop or notebook on desk.
✗ Avoid: Paper stacks, visible printers/shredders
Exterior & Outdoor Living
Day-Of Photo Shoot Checklist
Quick Fixes for Common Issues
Shiny hardwood glare
Close blinds halfway for the shot, then reopen.
Wrinkled bedding
Light mist of water + hair-dryer on low passes.
Visible cords
Painter's tape them to the back of furniture; unplug extras.
Empty wall feels flat
Hang neutral canvas art—centered 60" off the floor.
After the Shoot
Need personalized staging help or a quick walk-through before photo day? I'm here to make the process smooth, stress-free, and profitable.