Prepare your home for selling & photography
Preparing your home for selling is all about making it as appealing as possible to potential buyers. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you get your home photograph and market-ready. Whether your home is being viewed online or in-person, preparing your home is a crucial step in selling and on potential buyer’s first impression.
CLEAN THOROUGHLY
- Deep clean every room, including skirtings, windows, appliances, mirrors & furniture.
- Remove visible dust, dirt and fingerprints.
- Hire professional cleaners if needed (especially for carpets and windows).
- Polish reflective surfaces (like faucets and glass) to make them sparkle.
- Don’t forget the garage, basement and attic.
MAKE REPAIRS
- Fix leaky taps, squeaky doors, cracked tiles or damaged walls.
- Replace burnt-out lightbulbs and ensure all fixtures work properly.
- Touch up paint or repaint in neutral colours (e.g. white, beige, soft grey).
BOOST CURB APPEAL
- Mow the lawn, trim hedges, weed flower beds and plant fresh flowers if needed.
- Power-wash walkways, driveway, siding and porch.
- Repaint or clean the front door. Consider a new doormat or house numbers.
- Sweep the porch and remove any clutter (shoes, tools, toys).
- Park cars away from the home to keep the driveway and street view clear.
DECLUTTER AND DEPERSONALISE
- Remove family photos, personal collections, and excess decor.
- Minimise furniture to make rooms appear larger.
- Organise closets and storage spaces – they should look spacious, not overstuffed.
- Remove all unnecessary items from counter-tops
- Store away wires, remotes, paperwork and personal items
- Make each room look spacious and simple.
STAGE YOUR HOME
- Arrange furniture to highlight each room’s flow and purpose (bed in bedroom, desk in office).
- Add fresh linens, neutral throws, or a few tasteful accessories.
- Set the dining table or add a bowl of fresh fruit in the kitchen.
- Fluff pillows, straighten bedding and arrange furniture neatly.
MAXIMISE LIGHT
- Open blinds and curtains to let in natural light.
- Replace heavy drapes with sheer panels.
- Replace any burnt-out bulbs and use the same colour temperature (e.g. warm/cool)
- Add floor or table lamps to dark corners.
- Turn on all lights for photographs.
VIEWINGS
- Be ready to leave during viewings (buyers feel more comfortable).
- Keep the home clean and fresh-smelling at all times.
- Remove pets or secure them appropriately.
WHAT TO HIDE
- Rubbish and laundry bins & baskets.
- Shampoo bottles, toothbrushes, and toilet brushes.
- Pet bowls, beds, litter boxes and toys.
- Children’s toys and excess electronics.
- Kitchen sponges, dish soap and paper towels.
Talk to our Home Staging team that can advise, assist and dress your home to make a great first impression!
