How to Prep a House for Professional Photos (and Get Your Listing Sold Faster)
As a real estate photographer, I've seen it all—from perfectly staged homes to properties that need a little extra love before the camera arrives. In a fast-moving market, every detail counts. A home that looks its best in photos not only attracts more buyers but also helps your listing stand out from the competition.
The good news? You don't need a professional stager to get amazing results. By following a simple checklist, you can make sure your listing is camera-ready, saving time and getting you to a faster sale.
Step 1: Focus on the Curb Appeal
First impressions are everything. The exterior shot is often the first thing a potential buyer sees, so let’s make it count.
Clean Up the Yard: Mow the lawn, trim the hedges, and weed the flower beds.
Hide the "Stuff": Store away garbage cans, hoses, toys, and any other items that don’t belong.
Give it a Polish: Sweep the front porch, wipe down the front door, and make sure the walkway is clear.
Step 2: Declutter, Declutter, Declutter
This is the most important step for the interior. Less is always more. Think like a minimalist. A decluttered space allows buyers to visualize themselves living there.
Clear All Surfaces: Remove all personal items from kitchen counters, coffee tables, and bathroom vanities. This includes toothbrushes, soap dispensers, and small appliances.
Take Down Personal Photos: While family photos are great for a home, they can distract a buyer. Take down all personal photos and put them away for the shoot.
Put Away Excess Furniture: If a room feels cramped, consider temporarily removing a piece of furniture to open up the space and make the room look larger.
Step 3: The Deep Clean
A clean house shines on camera. Pay special attention to these areas:
Wipe Down All Surfaces: Dust furniture, wipe down all kitchen and bathroom countertops, and clean appliances.
Sparkle the Glass: Clean all windows and mirrors. This makes a huge difference in the final photos by eliminating glare and streaks.
Tidy the Floors: Make sure all floors are vacuumed and mopped. Hide all power cords and wires where possible.
Step 4: The Finishing Touches
These small details will make your listing pop.
Let There Be Light: Open all blinds and curtains to let in as much natural light as possible. On the day of the shoot, turn on every single light in the house, including lamps and under-cabinet lights.
Set the Scene: Fluff pillows, straighten bedspreads, and fold towels neatly. These little touches make the home feel cozy and well-cared for.
Pet Management: Make sure all pets are out of the way, and their toys, food, and bowls are hidden.
By taking these steps, you're doing more than just preparing a house for a photographer. You're preparing a listing to make a powerful first impression on buyers, giving it the best possible chance to sell quickly and for top dollar. For a more detailed PDF of ways to get your listing ready for photos, download our free Guide to a Picture-Perfect Listing by clicking HERE.
The work you put in makes all the difference, and it’s a partnership that pays off for both you and your client.
Ready to get your next listing noticed?
Contact Ferruccio Photography to book a shoot and get MLS-ready photos within 24 hours.
