This list should help you prepare the property for the shoot and bring your listing out from the crowd.

Exterior:

• Move vehicles from driveway and away from the front of home.
• Place trash cans, and anything that is not attached to the home, in the garage or out of sight.
• Cut grass, and remove all weeds from cracks in concrete.
• Remove garden hoses from the yard.
• Pressure wash driveways and sidewalks.
• Clean windows and mirrors.
• Remove the yard sign.
• When possible, water the grass 4-5 hours prior to shooting- Even a brown lawn will look better.
  

Kitchen:

• Remove any Calendars. – Calendars make a listing dated if it goes over 30 days.
• Clear all counter tops. – No scrubbies, soap, knives or cutting boards.
• Okay to leave 1-2 small appliances for size perception, but more than that can be distracting.
• Clear the refrigerator completely. – No magnets, pictures, lists etc…
• Clean shiny appliances very well – Dirty appliances will look smudged with flash cameras.
• Remove trash can from Kitchen.

General:

• Open all drapes and blinds on windows with a good view. – An exception would be baths and some bedrooms.
• For security, remove any expensive artwork and firearms from view. Even if they are decorative.
• Move/Remove any furniture that obstructs windows.
• Turn all ceiling fans OFF. They will create a motion blur in your photo and even video.
• Turn all inside lights ON. This will help balance the light in most areas.
• Turn all Televisions OFF, and clean them very well.
• Make beds and close closets. If you showcase a closet, do so separately if possible.
• Open doors between rooms to give an open feeling when possible.
• Remove ALL evidence of pets.
• Remove rugs from floors, especially from tile or wood floors.
• Conceal cords! Unplug them from the wall if needed. (Except lights)
• Replace any burnt out light bulbs.
• No shoes by doors or anywhere… Please place them in the closet.

Bathrooms:

• Toilet lids should be down.
• Clear the counter-top from absolutely every item considered to be personal.
• Remove cleaning brushes and trashcans.
• Clean mirrors and shower enclosures.
• Close Shower curtains.
• If custom tiled bath, showcase with shower curtain half-open.
• Remove toilet paper from holder, or use a full roll. No partial rolls please.

There are many other items to consider when preparing a home for Real Estate Photography, however by just following the above guidelines, your listing should stand out from the crowd. You only get one chance to make a good first impression.