Pre-Shoot Preparation Guide

Declutter

Declutter surfaces and floors. Put away mail, paperwork, medications, personal items and anything you do not want visible.

Personal Photos

Remove family photos and highly personal décor if your agent recommends a more neutral presentation.

Floors & Glass

Vacuum carpets and sweep/mop hard floors; clean visible glass, mirrors and fingerprints.

Lighting

Turn ON all interior lights and replace burnt-out bulbs. Use matching bulb temperatures where possible.

Natural Light

Open curtains and blinds. Raise shades so windows bring in as much natural light as possible.

Screens & Cords

Turn OFF TVs and computer monitors; hide remotes, charging cords and unnecessary cables.

Trash Cans

Empty small trash cans and hide larger trash/recycling bins.

Pet Supplies

Hide pet bowls, beds, toys, litter boxes and other pet supplies unless they intentionally support the room's presentation.

Countertops

Clear countertops as much as possible. Leave only a few attractive items, such as a coffee maker or simple décor .

Small Appliances

Put away small appliances, dish racks, sponges, soaps, cleaning products and excess countertop items.

Sink & Dishes

Clear the sink and put away dishes.

Refrigerator

Remove magnets, papers and photos from the refrigerator exterior.

Shelves & Pantry

Straighten open shelving and pantry displays; store excess food and packaging out of sight.

Dining Table

Straighten dining chairs and consider a simple table setting or centerpiece.

Furniture

Straighten sofas and chairs; fluff pillows and fold throws neatly.

Tables & Mantels

Clear coffee tables, end tables, shelves and fireplace mantels of unnecessary items.

Remotes & Electronics

Hide remotes, cords and visible electronics when practical.

Everyday Clutter

Remove excess toys, baskets and everyday clutter .

Intentional Décor

If staging with books or décor , use a few intentional pieces rather than filling every surface.

Bedding

Make every bed with smooth, neatly arranged bedding and decorative pillows if available.

Clothing & Laundry

Put away clothing, shoes, laundry baskets and personal items.

Nightstands & Dressers

Clear nightstands and dressers except for a few intentional décor pieces.

Chargers & Cords

Hide chargers, cords and visible electronics.

Under-Bed Storage

Check under beds and other open storage areas for anything visible from the camera angle.

Clean Surfaces

Clean mirrors, counters, sinks, tubs and showers.

Toiletries

Clear countertops of toiletries, medications, hair tools and personal products.

Tubs & Showers

Remove items from tubs and showers; close shower curtains or doors neatly.

Towels

Hang fresh, coordinated towels and remove excess towels from hooks/racks.

Cleaning Supplies

Hide toilet brushes, plungers, trash cans and cleaning supplies.

Toilets & Fixtures

Close toilet lids and make sure fixtures are clean and polished.

Laundry Areas

Clear counters and folding surfaces; put away laundry, detergents and cleaning supplies.

Desks

Tidy desks and hide paperwork, cords and personal information.

Shelves

Organize visible shelves and remove excess storage bins when possible.

Multipurpose Rooms

Make unfinished or multi-purpose rooms feel intentional and easy to understand.

Garage & Special Areas

If the garage, shop, barn, gym, workshop or other special area is being photographed, sweep floors and organize visible clutter .

Value-Adding Features

Highlight features that add value: built-ins, workbenches, storage systems, equipment areas, fireplaces, views or entertaining spaces.

Uncover Special Features

Open or uncover features that should be photographed, such as a pool, spa, fire pit or outdoor kitchen.

Lights on

Beds made

Cars moved

Pets secured

Trash hidden

Blinds/curtains open

Toilets closed

Counters clear

TVs off

Fans off

Personal items hidden

Everyone ready to step out