Real Estate
Prep Checklist
General Prep
Prepare early: Staging and cleaning should be done before I arrive, preferably the day before.
Secure or remove pets: Dogs and cats must be secured or removed for my equipment's safety and to prevent interference while capturing an image.
Plan to not be seen: All occupants should plan to be off the property or remain in areas that can’t be seen during the photoshoot. Rooms often overlap in photos, and people can cast shadows or reflections.
Outside Prep
Remove vehicles: Move all cars from the driveway. Also, move vehicles from the street in front of the property if possible.
Hide hoses: Do this the day before since hoses can leave water puddles on the pavement while moving, which we don’t want in an image.
Hide Trash Cans
Prep the yard: Do this at least 24 hours before the photoshoot. The yard should be mowed and cleared of toys, tools, trash, etc.
Pull Weeds: I recommend removing weeds from cracks in the driveway and blowing or sweeping away excess dirt that is pulled up.
Remove for-sale sign: The for-sale sign should be removed from the property (if possible) by the realtor if it has already been installed. Visible signs violate MLS rules and they can’t always be edited out easily. It’s best to schedule sign installation for the day after the photoshoot.
Turn off sprinklers: Do not water the day of the shoot to prevent puddles on the pavement.
Pick up poop: If you have a dog, make sure all droppings are removed.
Prep pool and spa: If you have a pool and/or spa, please have them cleaned with covers removed.
Clean patio furniture: Dust and remove cobwebs from all outdoor furniture. Do not hose down your furniture the day of your shoot, since this can create puddles.
Inside Prep
Open blinds: Indoor shots will show a view if there is one and natural light if there is no view.
Turn off fans: Please turn off all ceiling fans before I arrive.
Turn on lights: Please turn on all interior lights, and if needed, replace burned-out bulbs before I arrive.
Declutter kitchen: A few items on the counter is generally fine, but dishes, rags, sponges, etc. should be put away. It is best to remove all magnets, pictures, etc. from the refrigerator and remove throw rugs from the floor.
Declutter bathrooms: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, and other “personal” items should be hidden. Decorative unused soaps, candles, flowers, etc. are preferred. It’s also preferred to remove throw rugs.
Declutter entryways: Remove shoes, umbrellas, and similar items from the entryway.
Prep bedrooms: All bedrooms should have beds made and items put away.
(Optional) declutter walk-in closets: Standard closets are not typically shot, but if you have large and/or well-appointed walk-in closet then they could be photographed, so declutter them if possible, and consider staging them with only high-end garments (suits, dress shirts, dresses, etc.)
Declutter and depersonalize office: Organize and put away loose paperwork. It’s also best to not have any personal paperwork or identifying information in view.
Hide trash cans: All trash cans should be removed and placed in a closet or a garage because they can be distracting and unsightly.
Hide portable fans: Ceiling fans are selling items but portable fans can give a wrong impression. It’s best to hide all portable fans in a closet or the garage.
Hide remotes and cords: Hide electrical cords where possible and remove all remotes, game consoles, etc.
Floorplan Prep (If Applicable)
Ensure all areas of the home are accessible: I will need access to all interior spaces to create an accurate floorplan.
Twilight Prep (If Applicable)
Refer to the outside prep section and do the following:
Turn on all exterior and interior lights: Please turn on all the lights throughout the property and replace burnt-out bulbs at least a day in advance.
Prep pool and/or spa: If you have a pool and/or spa, remove the covers and turn on any lights and water features before I arrive.