Real Estate Photography Checklist: How to Get Your Home Photo-Ready for a Faster Sale
- commoncrewmedia
- Feb 14
- 3 min read
Introduction: Why Preparation is Key
High-quality real estate listing photography can be the difference between a fast sale and a home sitting on the market. Buyers form their first impressions online, so it’s crucial to ensure your property looks its best before the photoshoot.
However, even the best real estate photographer needs a well-prepared home to capture stunning, market-ready images. This guide, along with the pre-photoshoot checklist, will ensure your home is clean, decluttered, and visually appealing before the camera starts clicking.
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing a Home for Real Estate Photos
1️⃣ Exterior: Enhance Yard Appeal
The home’s exterior is the first thing buyers notice in listing photos. A well-maintained yard makes a property more inviting and appealing.
✅ Remove These:
BBQ covers, trash bins, hoses, and garden tools
Fallen leaves, overgrown bushes, and weeds
✅ Make Sure to Do These:
Mow the lawn and trim hedges
Arrange patio furniture neatly
Sweep the driveway and entryway
💡 Pro Tip: Adding potted plants or a seasonal wreath to the front door enhances yard appeal and creates a welcoming entrance.
2️⃣ Living Room: Create an Open, Welcoming Space
A bright and spacious living room helps buyers envision themselves in the home.
✅ Remove These:
Clutter from tables (magazines, remotes, toys)
Family photographs and personal items
Holiday décor or overly personalized decorations
✅ Make Sure to Do These:
Arrange pillows and cushions neatly
Open blinds and curtains to maximize natural light
Fold and drape blankets for a cozy yet tidy look
💡 Pro Tip: If using an expandable table, adjust it for the optimal layout—remove the leaf for small rooms, add it for larger spaces.
3️⃣ Kitchen: Showcase a Clean, Functional Space
The kitchen is one of the most photographed areas of a home, so it must appear spotless, decluttered, and inviting.
✅ Remove These:
Clutter from countertops (blenders, toasters, excess utensils)
Items stuck on refrigerator doors (magnets, notes, calendars)
Dish towels, sponges, and paper towel rolls
✅ Make Sure to Do These:
Wipe down appliances and countertops
Test all lightbulbs for uniform lighting
Open blinds and curtains to let in natural light
Store away food items, trash cans, and cleaning supplies
💡 Pro Tip: A simple fruit bowl or a cookbook stand adds a warm, lived-in touch without looking cluttered.
4️⃣ Bathrooms: Make It Look Like a Spa
A clean and fresh bathroom creates a luxurious, spa-like feel in real estate photos.
✅ Remove These:
Clutter from countertops (toothbrushes, razors, personal hygiene items)
Excess towels, toilet paper, and bath products
Plungers, toilet brushes, and trash bins
✅ Make Sure to Do These:
Clean mirrors, sinks, and showers
Put toilet lids down
Open blinds and curtains for natural light
Test all lightbulbs for even brightness
💡 Pro Tip: Use fresh white towels and add a small plant or a candle to enhance the luxury spa vibe.
5️⃣ Bedrooms: Keep It Neutral & Relaxing
Bedrooms should feel peaceful, well-organized, and distraction-free.
✅ Remove These:
Clutter from nightstands and dressers
Family photographs and children’s toys
Trash cans, hampers, and excess furniture
✅ Make Sure to Do These:
Make the bed with fresh linens
Fluff decorative pillows
Hide jewelry boxes and personal items
Test all lightbulbs to ensure even lighting
💡 Pro Tip: A neutral color scheme (white, beige, soft pastels) makes the bedroom feel more inviting to buyers.
6️⃣ Additional Details: The Finishing Touches
✅ Final Preparation Checklist:
✔ Turn on all lights to brighten spaces and turn off ceiling fans
✔ Temporarily remove religious and political items to create a neutral atmosphere
✔ Hide pet-related items (beds, bowls, litter boxes) and clean pet hair
✔ Minimize personal collections (souvenirs, collectibles) to avoid distractions
💡 Pro Tip: Buyers want to envision themselves living in the home, so keeping decor neutral and minimal is key!
Final Thoughts: A Well-Prepared Home Sells Faster
A well-prepared home ensures high-quality listing photos, better buyer engagement, and a faster sale.
✅ A quick recap of home preparation steps:
✔ Declutter & Deep Clean – A tidy space photographs better
✔ Best Lighting – Replace broken bulbs, use consistent bulb color, and choose simple, neutral blinds
✔ Stage Key Areas – Arrange furniture & decor to highlight features
✔ Yard Appeal – The exterior matters—buyers want to see a beautiful yard where they can relax and enjoy the sunlight
✔ Hide Pets & Personal Items – Keep it neutral & buyer-friendly
If you would like a printable flyer of the home prep checklist, view the link below
If you're a real estate agent or homeowner looking for stunning listing photos, professional real estate photography is the best investment you can make!
Looking to enhance your real estate listings with high-quality professional photography? Let’s discuss how professional photography can showcase your properties in the best light and elevate your marketing strategy. Reach out—I’d be happy to collaborate!
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