THE LISTING-READY CHECKLIST
Real Estate Photo Prep Checklist
WHY THIS MATTERS
A thoughtful walkthrough helps the home feel clean, spacious, and distraction-free so buyers can focus on the property itself. Use this guide to identify what needs attention before the team arrives - small details make a meaningful difference on camera.
01 / START OUTSIDE
Clear the exterior and set the entire home before refining individual rooms.
01
Exterior / Curb Appeal
☐ Hide trash cans.
☐ Ensure the driveway is empty and clean.
☐ Remove lawn ornaments.
☐ Mow the grass.
☐ Clear the porch. Tasteful outdoor furniture is encouraged.
☐ Clean the front door.
02
General Guide
☐ Open all blinds and curtains.
☐ Turn on all lights, including lamps.
☐ Remove seasonal or holiday decorations.
☐ Hide coats and shoes.
☐ Hide remotes and tissue boxes.
☐ Remove rugs and runners that are not placed under furniture.
02 / SHARED SPACES
Remove distractions, align furniture, and let the architecture and natural light lead.
03
Entryway / Foyer
☐ Hide shoes, coats, leashes, and personal items.
☐ Organize cubbies and visible storage areas.
☐ Ensure rugs follow the General Guide.
☐ Clear key and clothing hooks.
04
Living Rooms / Main Living Areas
☐ Hide remotes and electronics.
☐ Remove throw blankets.
☐ Fluff and evenly stage pillows.
☐ Straighten and align furniture.
☐ Clear tables, consoles, countertops, and other surfaces.
05
Kitchen
☐ Remove small appliances, vases, utensils, paper towels, digital clocks, screens, baskets, bins, and other countertop items.
☐ Show as much open countertop as possible.
☐ Remove hand towels.
☐ Hide hand soap, sponges, dishcloths, and dish soap.
☐ Remove magnets and papers from the refrigerator.
☐ Hide fruit and food baskets.
☐ Wipe down appliances and countertops, then sweep the floors.
06
Dining Room
☐ Set the table with tasteful place settings or leave it completely empty.
☐ Ensure rugs follow the General Guide.
☐ Straighten and evenly space chairs.
☐ Wipe down table surfaces.
03 / PRIVATE SPACES
Private rooms photograph best when surfaces are clear and personal items are out of view.
07
Bedrooms
☐ Make the bed and neatly stage pillows.
☐ Remove throw blankets.
☐ Clear and organize bedside tables.
☐ Hide shoes, robes, toys, and personal items in closets.
☐ Ensure rugs follow the General Guide.
☐ Turn on lights and lamps.
☐ Hide remotes and electronics.
08
Bathrooms
☐ Clear countertops completely.
☐ Hide hand soap and personal toiletry items.
☐ Remove unappealing hand towels.
☐ Remove shampoos, conditioners, soaps, razors, shower caps, and other products from showers.
☐ Remove rugs.
☐ Hide trash cans, plungers, and toilet brushes.
☐ Close toilet lids.
09
Office / Flex Spaces
☐ Clear and straighten all surfaces.
☐ Organize cords and electronics.
☐ Straighten furniture.
☐ Turn on lamps.
10
Laundry Room
☐ Hide detergent, garment bags, dryer sheets, and supplies.
☐ Ensure the washer and dryer are empty, closed, and clear on top.
☐ Straighten hanging items and hangers.
04 / FINISH STRONG
Use storage areas strategically, reset outdoor amenities, and complete one final walkthrough.
11
Garage / Storage Areas
☐ Use these areas to temporarily store items removed from the main living spaces.
☐ If the space will be photographed, straighten storage boxes.
☐ Organize tools along the walls.
☐ Sweep the floors.
12
Backyard / Outdoor Spaces
☐ Open and turn on hot tubs if they are in good working order.
☐ Uncover the grill if it is in good working order.
☐ Remove outdoor furniture covers.
☐ Straighten cushions and pillows.
☐ Turn on gas fireplaces.
☐ Mow the lawn.
☐ Hide toys, tools, and hoses.
13
Final Walkthrough
☐ Does every space look clean, calm, and organized?
☐ Are all lights and lamps on?
☐ Are rugs placed according to the checklist?
☐ Are surfaces and floors wiped down, swept, or vacuumed?