How to Prepare Your Home for Photos and Showings

Make a Great First Impression Online and In Person

Today’s buyers often see your home for the first time through online photos — and that first impression can determine whether they schedule a showing or move on. Once they arrive in person, how your home looks, feels, and smells plays a huge role in how they experience it.

Here’s how to properly prepare your home for listing photos and showings to attract more interest and stronger offers.

1. Declutter Every Room

Less is more. Remove excess furniture, personal items, and anything that makes a room feel crowded. Clear off countertops, tabletops, and nightstands. Pack away seasonal décor and extra items you won’t need for a few weeks.

The goal: create clean, open spaces that feel bright and spacious in photos and in person.

2. Deep Clean Everything

A clean home shows better — and photographs better.

• Scrub bathrooms and kitchens

• Wipe down baseboards and windowsills

• Clean mirrors, glass, and all surfaces

• Dust ceiling fans and vents

• Vacuum and mop all floors

Consider hiring a professional cleaning service before your photo shoot and first showing.

3. Depersonalize the Space

Buyers need to picture themselves living in your home — not you. Remove:

• Family photos

• Personalized wall art

• Religious or political items

• Excessive collectibles or memorabilia

Neutralizing your home helps buyers emotionally connect to the space.

4. Let the Light In

Open all blinds and curtains to bring in natural light. Replace dim light bulbs with brighter, soft white ones. Turn on all lights for showings and during photography to make the space feel warm and welcoming.

5. Stage Key Areas

You don’t need to stage your entire home, but pay special attention to:

• Living room: Simple seating arrangement, neutral pillows, and a coffee table with minimal decor

• Kitchen: Clear counters, one or two stylish items (fruit bowl, cookbook)

• Bedroom: Clean linens, fluffed pillows, and minimal items on nightstands

• Bathrooms: Fresh towels, closed toilet lids, and cleared counters

Add fresh flowers or greenery for a subtle touch of life.

6. Handle Odors

Smell matters. Eliminate odors at the source — don’t try to cover them up. Clean carpets and upholstery if needed. Take out the trash, avoid cooking strong-smelling foods before a showing, and open windows to air out the home.

For a fresh feel, lightly scented candles or diffusers (vanilla or citrus) can help — just don’t overdo it.

7. Don’t Forget the Exterior

Curb appeal sets the tone before a buyer even steps inside.

• Mow the lawn

• Trim hedges and clean up landscaping

• Sweep the porch and walkways

• Clean the front door and windows

• Add a doormat or potted plant for a welcoming entry

A clean, well-maintained exterior encourages buyers to expect the same inside.

8. Prepare for Showings Like a Pro

Before every showing:

• Make the beds

• Empty the trash

• Wipe down surfaces

• Turn on lights and open blinds

• Hide pet bowls, litter boxes, and personal toiletries

• Secure valuables and medications

Leave the home before showings so buyers can explore freely.

Final Thoughts

The way your home looks and feels plays a major role in how quickly it sells — and for how much. By investing time upfront to prepare for photos and showings, you’ll attract more serious buyers and set yourself up for a successful sale.