The best real estate photographer can't edit away a messy kitchen counter. Thirty minutes of preparation is the difference between good photos and photos that sell. Share this checklist with your sellers the day you book.
The day before
- Clean windows, mirrors, and glass doors — streaks show in photos
- Replace burnt-out bulbs and use the same colour temperature throughout
- Mow the lawn, sweep paths, and tidy the garden
- Book any cleaning or gardening help you need
- Tell tenants or family members the shoot time
Kitchen
- Clear counters completely, except one or two decor items
- Remove magnets, photos, and notes from the fridge
- Hide dish soap, sponges, tea towels, and garbage bins
- Close cabinet doors and appliance doors
Living and dining areas
- Remove remote controls, chargers, and visible cords
- Fluff and straighten cushions and throws
- Set the dining table simply — or leave it clear
- Open blinds and curtains evenly
Bedrooms
- Make beds with smooth, light-coloured bedding
- Clear nightstands to a lamp and one item
- Put away clothes, laundry baskets, and shoes
Bathrooms
- Close the toilet lid
- Remove toiletries, razors, and bath mats
- Hang fresh, matching towels
- Clear the shower of bottles
Exterior and drone
- Move cars off the driveway and away from the front of the house
- Put away hoses, toys, tools, and garbage bins
- Uncover patio furniture and the BBQ
- Turn on pool or hot tub lights for twilight shoots
Just before we arrive
- Turn on every light, including lamps and under-cabinet lights
- Turn off ceiling fans and TVs
- Put pets in a safe space — unless they're joining an Agent Lifestyle video
- Plan to step out or stay in one room while we shoot
What we can fix — and what we can't
Reshot's object removal takes care of small distractions like a stray cord or a bin, and the Blue Sky Guarantee replaces grey skies on exteriors. Virtual staging can furnish empty rooms. What editing can't fix well is general clutter — so the checklist above still matters.
Scheduling with tenants
If a property is tenanted, the shoot can be split across two different days so each unit is ready when it's photographed. Give tenants advance written notice according to BC's residential tenancy rules.
Need to reschedule?
You can cancel or reschedule free of charge until 6:00 PM the day before your appointment — through your client portal, or by phone, text, or email. Changes after that time carry a 30% fee, and on-site cancellations carry a 50% fee (minimum $100).
Ready when you are. Book your shoot — and send this checklist to your sellers. Not sure which media to order? Compare real estate photography packages.
