In today’s market, your home doesn’t get a second chance at a first impression — because most buyers meet it online first. Before they ever step through the front door, they’ve already decided if they want to see more… or keep scrolling.
The good news?
You don’t need a full renovation to make your home photo-ready. A few intentional steps can make your listing photos pop — and get buyers booking showings fast.
Here’s how to prep your home for photos that truly stop the scroll.
Clutter shrinks a space on camera. Even items that feel “normal” in daily life can look overwhelming in photos.
What to do:
Clear countertops, nightstands, and coffee tables
Remove personal photos, collections, and paperwork
Thin out closets — yes, buyers notice closet photos
Pro tip: Pack a few boxes early and stash them in the garage. Less stuff = more visual space.
Cameras catch what our eyes gloss over.
Focus on:
Baseboards
Light switches
Windows and mirrors
Floors and grout
A clean home doesn’t just look better — it feels better in photos.
If your budget allows, a professional cleaning before photos is often worth every penny.
Bright photos = happy buyers.
Before the photographer arrives:
Open all curtains and blinds
Turn on every light (even lamps)
Replace burnt-out bulbs
Use the same color temperature throughout the house
Natural light makes spaces feel larger, warmer, and more inviting.
More furniture doesn’t mean more function — especially on camera.
Remove oversized or extra pieces
Create clear walkways
Angle furniture to highlight the room’s purpose
The goal is to show how the room lives, not how much it holds.
You don’t need a full stager to make a home feel styled.
Simple touches go a long way:
Neutral throw pillows
A folded towel and soap in the bathroom
A bowl of lemons or a simple plant in the kitchen
Fresh bed linens pulled tight
Keep it clean, calm, and neutral so buyers can picture themselves there.
Your exterior photo is often the very first image buyers see.
Quick curb appeal wins:
Sweep walkways and driveway
Mow, edge, and trim bushes
Remove trash cans and cars from the driveway
Add a fresh doormat or potted plant
Think: welcoming, not high-maintenance.
Before photos, walk through your home like you’ve never seen it before.
Ask yourself:
Would I notice that cord, trash can, or pet bowl?
Does this room feel calm or busy?
Where does my eye naturally go?
If something distracts you, it will distract buyers too.
Great photos don’t just show your home — they create emotion.
They make buyers pause, imagine, and click “Schedule a Showing.”
When a home is prepped correctly, it doesn’t just photograph better…
It often sells faster and for more money.
Every home is different, and prep should be tailored — not one-size-fits-all.
If you want guidance on how to get your home photo-ready without overdoing it, I’d love to help.
Reach out anytime — let’s make your listing impossible to scroll past.
