Pre-Shoot Checklist
This pre-shoot checklist will help ensure that your home is photographed quickly, efficiently, and with the best possible results.
Exterior
Remove vehicles from the driveway and away from the front of the home.
Place garbage bins and anything that is not attached to the home out of site.
Move the grass, and remove any unsightly weeds or vegetation.
Clean windows.
Organize deck furniture, uncover BBQ, open patio umbrella, etc.
Sweep or pressure wash the driveway if necessary.
Make sure the backyard is free of kids’ toys, evidence of pets, unnecessary clutter etc.
Make sure there are no clothes hanging in the cloths line.
Interior
General
Replace any burnt light bulbs and ensure all bulbs are the same colour temperature.
Remove as much clutter as possible, especially personal belongings that are not included in the sale.
Put away door mats and remove rugs that might be hiding nice floorings like hardwood or tile.
Remove all evidence of pets.
Open up blinds and remove any fixed window coverings that block natural light.
Turn off all TVs, computer screens, and ceiling fans.
Conceal and hide power cords. Unplug them if necessary (except lights).
Put all shoes away.
Make sure there are no clothes hanging in the laundry room.
Make beds, straighten picture frames/artwork, organize pillows, etc.
Avoid hiding items under beds or furniture.
Remove any personal information that you wouldn’t want visible online.
Kitchen
Clear all bench tops – A few small appliances, fruit bowls, plants etc. are ok, but avoid anything tall that might be distracting or block the view.
Clear the fridge completely – Remove all magnets, photos, lists, etc.
Clean appliances – Be sure to remove all fingerprints, smudges, etc.
Put garbage bin away.
Make sure the sink is clean and free of dishes.
Put away dish soap, clothes, etc.
Remove calendars as they can date a listing.
Straighten bar stools and table chairs.
Bathrooms
Put toilet lids down.
Clear the counter of all personal belongings.
Clean mirrors.
Open shower curtains – remove all bottles, razors, soap, etc.
Place a fresh roll of toilet paper on the holder.
Remove the toilet brush and trash can.
Best Practices to Consider
Feel free to do a walkthrough with the photographer upon arrival but avoid following them around during the shoot.
If you have limited space, consider designating a secondary room for temporary storage ahead of time rather than trying to move items from room to room while the photographer is on site.
Make sure pets are out of the home or kenneled.
Photographers will not be staging your home so please make arrangements with your agent or stager prior to the shoot.
Don’t rush your photographer – Great images are critical when marketing a home for sale, so it is in your best interest to be patient and let your photographer do their thing.
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