Real Estate Photography Checklist for Sellers

Proper preparation before your real estate photography appointment significantly improves the final images. Here's a comprehensive room-by-room checklist.

General Home Preparation

Before photography day: complete all deep cleaning (photography reveals dust, fingerprints, and dirt that casual inspection misses); remove all personal items from visible surfaces; hide electrical cords and cables; replace any burned-out bulbs with consistent color temperature bulbs (warm vs. cool mixing looks bad in photos); clean all windows inside and out; and remove cars from the driveway and visible street.

Kitchen Preparation

Clear all countertops completely — remove small appliances, dish soap, mail, and personal items. Clean all appliances including the inside of the microwave (glass door microwaves show contents). Polish stainless steel surfaces. Replace any worn or decorative dish towels with fresh, neutral ones. Ensure the sink is empty and clean. Remove refrigerator magnets and decorations.

Living and Dining Rooms

Remove all personal photographs and family portraits. Clear surfaces of personal items, leaving only 1-2 tasteful decorative objects. Ensure furniture is arranged naturally and photogenically. Remove children's toys, pet items, and personal reading materials. Clean all glass and mirror surfaces. Hide remote controls and electronic clutter.

Bedrooms

Make all beds neatly with appropriate bedding (no mismatched or worn bedspreads). Remove all personal items from nightstands and dressers. Close all closet doors. Remove personal photographs. Ensure adequate lamp lighting for evening or darker rooms.

Bathrooms

Remove all personal items from countertops (toothbrushes, toiletries, medications). Clean all surfaces and mirrors thoroughly. Put out fresh, coordinating towels. Remove and store bath products from tub and shower. Clean toilet bowl. Close toilet lid for photography.

Exterior Preparation

Mow the lawn; edge all borders; blow or sweep all hardscapes. Remove vehicles from driveway. Store trash cans, garden tools, and hoses. Remove pet waste from yard. Clean all outdoor furniture. Ensure pool is clean and properly colored. Add fresh flowers or seasonal plants at the entrance if available.

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