Home Prep Checklist
General
- Turn all lights ON (lamps, exterior, closet, cabinet lights, etc.)
- Turn ceiling fans OFF
- Open all curtains for maximum natural light
- Keep blinds down but rotated fully open
- Replace any burnt-out bulbs
- Hide cords, chargers, and visible wires
- Remove personal photos and highly personal décor
- Secure pets or remove from property during shoot
- Hide pet bowls, toys, crates, litter boxes
Note: We do not photograph standard closets or garages (unless requested) — these may be used for temporary storage.
Kitchen
- Remove all towels, mats, and rugs
- Clear countertops (minimal, intentional décor only)
- Remove soap, sponges, drying racks from sink
- Hide trash cans
- Remove magnets, papers, items from refrigerator
- Remove small appliances unless staged (air fryers, toasters, etc.)
- Straighten bar stools and dining chairs
- Clean stainless steel (no fingerprints)
Bathrooms
- Remove personal items (toothbrushes, razors, products)
- Remove bath mats and rugs
- Remove shower items (bottles, loofahs, etc.)
- Hide trash cans, tissue boxes, toilet brushes
- Close toilet lids
- Straighten towels (fresh, neutral if possible)
- Clean mirrors (no streaks)
Note: We typically do not photograph separate toilet rooms — great storage spots during prep.
Living Room
- Remove remotes, chargers, tissue boxes
- Remove excessive décor
- Hide pet beds and toys
- Straighten pillows and blankets
Bedrooms
- Make beds neatly (neutral bedding photographs best)
- Remove clutter from dressers, nightstands, desks
- Hide laundry hampers
- Remove personal photos
- Kids' rooms: organize or store toys to maximize space
Exterior
- Remove vehicles from driveway and street view
- Close all garage doors
- Remove trash/recycling bins from sight
- Blow off leaves/debris from driveway, sidewalk, patio
- Open patio umbrellas
- Remove grill/furniture covers
- Straighten outdoor cushions
- Mow lawn (seasonal)
- Trim overgrown bushes near windows/entry
- Clear snow (winter)
Optional Luxury Touches
- Fresh flowers in kitchen or entry
- Set dining table lightly (simple, elegant)
- Turn on fireplace (if gas and safe)
- Add a neutral throw blanket
- Turn on pool / water features (if applicable)