Quick answer
To prepare a home for real estate photos, clear every surface, put away personal items, turn on all lights, open blinds evenly, move cars and trash bins out of view and tidy the yard. Send the room-by-room checklist below to sellers a few days before the shoot.
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The best listing photos start before the photographer arrives. A camera captures everything: the toaster, the shampoo bottles, the car in the driveway. Thirty minutes of prep can make a bigger difference than any amount of editing. Agents, feel free to send this checklist to your sellers.
The day before
- Declutter every surface. Countertops, tables, dressers, and nightstands should be almost bare. Leave two or three decor items at most.
- Remove personal items. Family photos, kids' artwork, mail, and anything with names or addresses.
- Replace burnt-out bulbs and use the same color temperature (warm or daylight) throughout the house.
- Clean windows and mirrors. Streaks show up in photos.
- Mow, rake, or shovel. In New England, check the forecast and clear snow from walkways and the driveway.
Room by room
Kitchen
- Clear the counters completely (yes, even the coffee maker).
- Remove magnets and papers from the fridge.
- Hide dish soap, sponges, and towels.
- Take trash cans out of view.
Living areas
- Fluff and straighten pillows and throws.
- Hide remotes, cords, and chargers.
- Open blinds and curtains evenly.
- Put pet beds, bowls, and toys away.
Bedrooms
- Make the beds with neutral, wrinkle-free bedding.
- Clear nightstands.
- Close closet doors and put laundry away.
Bathrooms
- Remove every toiletry from counters and the shower.
- Put the toilet seat down.
- Hang fresh, matching towels (or none at all).
- Take out bath mats and plungers.
Exterior
- Move cars off the driveway and away from the front of the house.
- Hide trash and recycling bins.
- Put away hoses, tools, and toys.
- Sweep the front steps and porch.
- If you're getting drone shots, tidy the backyard and pool area too. They'll be visible from above.
Right before the shoot
- Turn on all the lights, including lamps and under-cabinet lights.
- Turn off ceiling fans and TVs.
- Open the blinds.
- Put pets in a crate, outside, or with a neighbor.
- Plan to step out or stay in one room so you aren't in the shot.
Tips for condos and multifamily homes
Boston-area condos often have shared spaces. Confirm access to roof decks, gyms, common areas, and parking ahead of time. If the unit is tenant-occupied, give the tenant this checklist and at least 48 hours' notice.
What if the home is vacant?
Empty rooms can feel small and cold in photos. Virtual staging is an affordable way to show scale and lifestyle. Order it for the two or three key rooms, usually the living room, primary bedroom, and kitchen/dining. MLS rules generally require you to disclose that images are virtually staged.
Ready to book?
Sham RE Media shoots listings across Boston, the North Shore, and Southern NH. We offer photography, drone, video, 3D tours, floor plans, and virtual staging. Book your shoot or call (617) 858-7268.
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