Repair the details buyers will notice
Replace burned-out or missing light bulbs, secure loose hardware, install missing outlet or utility covers, repair damaged shutters and address visible maintenance items.
Seller Photo Preparation
Make your home photo-ready—without the last-minute scramble.
Your listing photos may be a buyer’s first look at your home. Use this guide in two stages: complete the preparation work several days in advance, then follow the separate photo-day list just before the photographer arrives.
List 01 · Several days before
Prepare in advance
Finish repairs, cleaning and decluttering early enough to make thoughtful decisions. If you are unsure whether an improvement is worth the cost, speak with Brittny before starting it.
Declutter with the camera in mind
Clear countertops, tabletops and open shelving. Remove refrigerator magnets, excess décor and personal collections so each room reads as spacious and intentional.
Deep-clean reflective surfaces
Clean windows, window sills, mirrors, glass doors, appliances and fixtures. Cameras capture dust, fingerprints, streaks and smudges more clearly than the eye may notice.
Refresh walls and floors
Touch up scuffed paint, clean baseboards and have stained carpet professionally cleaned. Repair or replace visibly damaged flooring when appropriate.
Simplify every room
Remove excess furniture, hide cords and chargers, and create clear walking paths. Store pet supplies, toys, laundry, exercise equipment and everyday clutter out of sight.
Prepare kitchens and bathrooms
Leave only a few purposeful items on kitchen counters. In bathrooms, clear personal products, medicine, cleaning supplies, toilet brushes, scales and extra towels.
Polish the exterior
Mow and edge the lawn, trim shrubs, remove weeds and refresh mulch where needed. Sweep porches, pressure-wash stained surfaces and remove empty planters or worn décor.
Plan for privacy and pets
Put away family photos, documents, valuables and anything displaying personal information. Decide where pets, crates, bowls and litter boxes will go during photography.
List 02 · Immediately before arrival
The day of the photoshoot
Give yourself at least one uninterrupted hour for this final reset. Walk from room to room, then check the front, back and sides of the property.
- 01
Turn on every interior and exterior light; confirm all bulbs match and work.
- 02
Turn off ceiling fans, televisions and computer monitors.
- 03
Open blinds and curtains evenly unless your photographer gives different instructions.
- 04
Make every bed neatly; smooth bedding and arrange pillows.
- 05
Clear kitchen and bathroom counters, sinks, tubs and shower ledges.
- 06
Remove towels, bath mats, trash cans, hampers, tissue boxes and cleaning supplies from view.
- 07
Close toilet lids, shower curtains, closets, cabinets and garage doors.
- 08
Hide cords, remotes, pet supplies, toys, shoes, mail and last-minute clutter.
- 09
Move vehicles away from the driveway and the front of the home before the photographer arrives.
- 10
Move trash and recycling bins, hoses, tools and lawn equipment out of the camera’s view.
- 11
Sweep porches and patios; straighten outdoor furniture, cushions and welcome mats.
- 12
Secure pets and plan to leave the home so the photographer can work efficiently.
A stronger first impression
Not sure what your home needs before photos?
Brittny can help you separate the priorities from the optional projects and build a preparation plan around your property.
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