• Remove vehicle(s) from the driveway and do not to park directly in front of the property. Please aim to park further down the street or in a garage when possible.

• Open window coverings, such as blinds, curtains, or drapes (turn vertical and venetian blinds to open position). This will let in natural light and show favorable views.

• Clean the windows so they are completely clear and transparent without any smudges or markings.

• Remove any items which may be taped or otherwise fastened to the refrigerator.

• Remove everything from your sinks – sponges, brushes, rags and soap

• Remove what you can from all countertops (bread, dishes, toothpaste, combs, soaps, food, toiletries, hand towels, etc.) so that they are entirely clean and open.

• Tidy up the bedrooms. Make the beds and hide all clothing or other items that may be laying around.

• Put away any and all children’s toys. Put them in storage containers, closets, cabinets, or any other location that is completely out of view.

• For homes with pets: remove any pet bowls, litter boxes, or toys in rooms that you plan to have photographed.

• Put away any newspapers and magazines laying out around the house. Put them on bookshelves or store them in drawers to maximize the property’s visual appeal.

• Make sure all light bulbs work and replace any broken lights. Clean light bulbs to remove dust. It is preferred that lighting is the same hue throughout.

• Roll up or hide garden hoses and hide all garden tools.

• Gather all trash and put it in trash bins outside. Then, conceal all trash containers by moving them out of view during the photoshoot.

• Get the lawn mowed and edged, the weeds pulled, and leaves picked up.

• Make sure the pool and pool area are clean. If there is temporary child fencing, take it down for the photoshoot. Turn on the pumps for waterfalls/spillways to maximize visual appeal.

• Help the photographer by keeping pets and people out of the way during the shoot.

• MOST IMPORTANTLY: Declutter!