RESIDENTIAL LISTING PREP GUIDE
The way a home is presented on day one sets the tone for the entire sale. My goal is to capture your home in a way that feels bright, spacious, calm, and move-in ready.
The checklist below will help us get there.
GENERAL – Create a clean, open feel
– Remove personal items such as family photos, paperwork, toiletries, and laundry piles
– Clear everyday clutter into closets or the garage
– Replace any burned-out bulbs and match light color where possible
– Vacuum carpets, sweep floors, wipe surfaces, and clean windows
– Take down seasonal or highly specific décor
LIVING SPACES – Invite people to picture themselves here
– Put away remotes, toys, fans, pet beds, and loose items
– Fold throws, smooth out sofa cushions, and fluff pillows
– Clear stacks of mail, magazines, and shopping bags
– Style shelves simply — a few books or objects is great, not full or overloaded
KITCHEN – This room sells the house
– Clear countertops except for a few intentional pieces (a bowl of citrus, a coffee machine you love, etc)
– Put away dishes, sponges, drying racks, soaps, and trash cans
– Wipe appliances and range hood so they’re streak-free
– Remove notes, magnets, and photos from the refrigerator
– Move pet bowls out of frame
DINING AREA – Make it feel ready to host
– Straighten all chairs
– Either leave the table clear or add one simple centerpiece such as flowers or greenery
– Full place settings are optional, not required
BEDROOMS – Hotel, not “lived in”
– Make all beds with smooth bedding and arranged pillows
– Clear nightstands of phones, chargers, tissues, and glasses
– Put all clothing, hampers, toys, and personal items out of view
– Confirm bedside lamps work
BATHROOMS – Think spa
– Clear counters of toothbrushes, makeup, razors, medicine, and hair tools
– Remove shampoos and loofahs from showers and tubs
– Use one matching towel set per bathroom if possible
– Clean mirrors and glass
– Close toilet lids and tuck away plungers or bins
OUTDOOR SPACES – Lifestyle matters outside, too
– Please pause any landscaping services on the day of the shoot
– Mow, sweep, and remove leaves from walkways and patio areas
– Put away hoses, tools, toys, and pool equipment
– Arrange outdoor furniture so it looks intentional
– Remove trash bins and cars from view of the front of the home
POOL / SPA (if applicable)
– Remove covers from the pool and spa
– Skim the surface so the water looks clean and still
– Remove pool cleaners, poles, and floats
ONE HOUR BEFORE THE SHOOT – Final touch-ups
– Open blinds and shades for maximum natural light
– Turn on accent and lamp lighting (leave overhead lights off if possible)
– Close all windows
– Hide pet items and have pets out of main rooms during filming
– Close all toilet lids
– Move cars from the driveway and street-facing areas
WHAT TO EXPECT ON SHOOT DAY
Please have your home fully ready before the scheduled start time so I can focus entirely on capturing it at its best.
Filming is a creative process and can take a few hours depending on the home size and deliverables. During that time I’ll be adjusting angles, balancing light, and capturing footage that presents the property in its most inviting form.
If there are specific features or views you’d like highlighted, please mention them at the start of the shoot so I can prioritize them while keeping flow.
Many agents I work with trust me to present each property with care and precision, and I’m grateful for that continued trust. My goal is to bring that same attention and artistry to your home.
You can explore some of my recent films at www.searisestudio.com.