The Essential Photo-Ready Checklist for Home Sellers

Preparing your home for professional photography is one of the most important steps in the selling process. Today’s buyers shop online first, and your photos are often the very first impression they’ll have of your home. A clean, bright, well-prepared space helps your listing shine online, attract more attention, and stand out from the competition. This checklist will guide you through simple steps to make every room camera-ready so we can showcase your home in its best possible light.

Whole House

• Declutter all surfaces (countertops, tables, shelves, nightstands, etc.).
• Hide personal photos, valuables, and anything with identifying info.
• Open all blinds and curtains for maximum natural light.
• Replace burnt-out lightbulbs and ensure all bulbs match in color/warmth.
• Turn on all interior lights for a bright, inviting look.
• Remove plugs, cords, and small electronics when possible.
• Hide pet bowls, beds, toys, litter boxes, crates, etc.
• Tuck away trash cans and laundry baskets.
• Straighten furniture; remove extra or oversized pieces to open the space.
• Smooth and tighten bedding—hotel-style if possible.
• Ensure all ceiling fans are turned off.

Kitchen

• Clear countertops completely (toasters, air fryers, dish racks, etc.).
• Remove fridge magnets, calendars, paperwork, and personal items.
• Hide dish soap, sponges, and paper towels.
• Wipe down counters, appliances, and sink.

Living & Dining Areas

• Straighten throw pillows and fold blankets neatly.
• Clear off coffee tables, end tables, and dining tables.
• Hide remotes, gaming consoles, and small electronics.

Bathrooms

• Clear countertops (toothbrushes, razors, bottles, etc.).
• Remove shower/bath products from tub/shower.
• Close toilet lids.
• Put out clean, neutral towels (no bright patterns).

Exterior

• Move cars out of driveway and away from the front of the home.
• Put away hoses, tools, toys, and lawn equipment.
• Close garage and shed doors.
• Mow lawn, rake leaves, and tidy landscaping.
• Remove trash/recycling bins from view.
• Turn on exterior lights if photographing around dusk.

Pets

• Remove all signs of pets from photos (bowls, crates, toys).
• Secure pets off-site.

Final Touches

• Make sure the home looks simple, tidy, and open.
• Do a final walkthrough to hide last-minute items (water bottles, jackets, mail).

Photo-Ready and Listed

Great photos don’t just make a home look beautiful—they help it get noticed, generate more showings, and ultimately position you for a stronger sale. By taking the time to prep each space, you’re setting the stage for a listing that truly shines online and captures the interest of serious buyers. If you have any questions or need help getting your home photo-ready, I’m here every step of the way. Together, we’ll make your home look its very best for the market.