How to Prepare Your Home for Photo Day and Showings

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions matter—and the first impression many buyers get is from the listing photos. High-quality photos can make your home stand out online and generate more interest, but the key to great photos is preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your home ready for photo day and make it shine for potential buyers.

1. Declutter Every Space

Buyers want to envision themselves living in your home, which can be hard to do if it’s filled with too much “stuff.”

• Remove personal items: Pack away family photos, trophies, and other personal decor.

• Minimize surfaces: Clear countertops, tables, and shelves to create a clean and spacious look.

• Simplify furniture: If rooms feel crowded, consider storing excess furniture to make the space feel larger.

Decluttering doesn’t just help with photos—it also sets the stage for an organized move when your home sells!

2. Pack or Sell Items You Don’t Need

While your home is on the market, it’s a great time to start packing or downsizing.

• Seasonal items: Pack up items you won’t need, like winter clothes or holiday decorations.

• Sell or donate: Consider selling or donating items you no longer use to reduce clutter.

• Store neatly: Organize packed items in a garage or storage unit to keep them out of sight during photos and showings.

This not only preps your home for photos but also helps you get a head start on moving.

3. Address Pet Odors and Remove Pets During Showings

We all love our pets, but buyers may not. Strong pet odors or signs of pets can be a turnoff, so it’s important to address these before photos and showings.

• Deep clean: Shampoo carpets, mop floors, and clean furniture to eliminate pet odors.

• Hide pet items: Remove food bowls, litter boxes, pet beds, and toys for photos.

• Remove pets for showings: Arrange for pets to stay with a friend, family member, or at a boarding facility during showings.

Unfriendly pets can also create a negative experience for buyers, so it’s best to have them off-site during visits.

4. Clean Like a Pro

A clean home photographs better and makes a great impression on buyers.

• Windows: Clean all windows for bright, natural light.

• Floors: Sweep, vacuum, and mop floors to ensure they’re spotless.

• Kitchen and bathrooms: These spaces are buyer favorites, so give them extra attention. Clear off counters, scrub sinks, and polish appliances.

• Dust everything: Don’t forget to dust light fixtures, baseboards, and furniture.

5. Stage Your Home to Highlight Its Best Features

Staging helps buyers visualize your home’s potential.

• Maximize natural light: Open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible.

• Add inviting touches: Place fresh flowers on tables, set the dining table, or arrange throw pillows neatly.

• Focus on curb appeal: Don’t forget the exterior—mow the lawn, trim hedges, and sweep porches or walkways.

6. Be Ready for Photo Day

When the photographer arrives, your home should be camera-ready.

• Turn on lights: Ensure all light bulbs work and turn on every light to brighten the space.

• Remove distractions: Hide cords, remotes, and anything that might clutter the photos.

• Step back: Be prepared to leave while the photographer works to ensure they can capture the best angles without interruption.

The Bottom Line

Preparing your home for photo day takes effort, but the payoff is worth it. Buyers are drawn to clean, bright, and decluttered spaces—and your listing photos set the stage for that first impression.

At Bexar Realty Group brokered by Central Metro Realty, we help sellers like you showcase your home in the best light possible.

Ready to sell your home? Contact Mindy Romero today for expert guidance and to ensure your home is picture-perfect for buyers! See our Staging Company HERE for photos of occupied and vacant homes we have staged over the past few years