Tips for Getting Your Home Ready for Listing Photos

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions matter more than ever. Most buyers start their search online, and your listing photos are often the very first thing they see. According to the National Association of Realtors, 97% of homebuyers used the internet in their home search in 2023, which means professional, well-prepared photos can be the deciding factor in whether a potential buyer books a showing, or scrolls past.

Here are some essential tips to help you prepare your home for listing photos and make it shine online.

1. Declutter and Depersonalize

Clutter can make even the largest rooms appear smaller and more cramped. Before photo day, clear countertops in kitchens and bathrooms, remove small appliances, and tuck away everyday items like remote controls, chargers, and stacks of magazines. In living areas, try to keep shelves simple with just a few tasteful pieces. Removing personal photos and keepsakes is also important, it helps potential buyers picture themselves in the home rather than feeling like a visitor in someone else’s space. Think of it as setting the stage for buyers to imagine their future, not showcasing your past.

2. Deep Clean Every Room

Photos are unforgiving when it comes to dirt, dust, and smudges. A professional deep cleaning or a very thorough DIY job is one of the best investments you can make before listing. Focus on shining appliances, streak-free windows, sparkling floors, and spotless bathrooms. Don’t forget small details like wiping light switches, polishing fixtures, and cleaning mirrors—these are things cameras pick up easily. A clean home not only looks better but also sends a strong signal to buyers that the property has been well maintained.

3. Maximize Natural Light

Bright, well-lit rooms photograph far better than dark ones. Open blinds, raise shades, and pull back curtains to let in natural light. For rooms that don’t get much sunlight, swap out dim bulbs for brighter, daylight-balanced ones to make the space look airy and inviting. Also, consider the time of day—if your home gets beautiful morning light in the kitchen or afternoon sun in the living room, let your photographer know so they can capture it at its best. Lighting sets the mood in photos, and brighter homes almost always stand out in online listings.

4. Stage Key Areas

Staging doesn’t always mean renting furniture; it can be as simple as arranging what you already have in a way that feels open and intentional. In living rooms, angle furniture to create a conversational layout and keep pathways clear. In bedrooms, use crisp white or neutral bedding with accent pillows to give a “hotel feel.” In bathrooms, put out fresh towels and a simple decorative touch like a candle or plant. These small adjustments make a huge difference in how buyers emotionally connect with a space. The goal is to highlight the functionality of each room while making it warm and welcoming.

5. Enhance Curb Appeal

The exterior of your home is just as important as the interior—it’s often the very first photo buyers see. Mow the lawn, trim overgrown bushes, and edge sidewalks for a neat appearance. If your siding, driveway, or deck looks weathered, a quick power wash can do wonders. Consider adding seasonal flowers in pots or a fresh wreath on the door for a splash of color. Even small changes, like replacing a worn doormat or polishing the house numbers, can help create a strong first impression that draws buyers in from the moment they view the listing online.

6. Hide Everyday Items

Things you don’t notice day to day can stick out in photos. Pet toys, trash bins, laundry baskets, and even dish soap bottles can make a room look messy. Before the photographer arrives, do a sweep of the entire home and tuck away anything that doesn’t enhance the look of the space. The same goes for cars in the driveway, moving them ensures your home is the true star of the exterior shots. Remember, photos highlight what’s in view, so removing distractions helps buyers focus on the property itself.

7. Work With Your Photographer

A professional real estate photographer knows how to frame a shot, adjust lighting, and highlight your home’s best features. Listen to their suggestions, even if it means shifting furniture or removing a piece temporarily. They might recommend photographing from certain angles to make a room feel larger or capturing specific details like a custom backsplash or unique fireplace. Trust their expertise, it’s their job to make your home look irresistible online. By working together, you’ll ensure the final images tell the best possible story about your property.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your home for listing photos takes effort, but it’s one of the smartest moves you can make before hitting the market. Homes that shine online often get more showings, sell faster, and can even attract stronger offers. Each step, from decluttering to enhancing curb appeal, adds up to create photos that truly grab attention.

By: Mark Comparato

Broker Associate- Call The Comps Real Estate Team at REAL BROKER, LLC