Window shades are open, all lights are on, patio furniture is clean and well placed, any trash cans or yard equipment has been removed from the exterior area.
Preparing your home to sell
Making a great first impression
In Wisconsin, we know first impressions matter — whether you’re selling a home, listing a rental, or welcoming guests to an Airbnb. Professional real estate photography plays a huge role in how quickly a property attracts interest, but the secret to standout photos starts before the photographer ever arrives.
With a little thoughtful preparation, you can help your home look bright, welcoming, and ready to sell or rent. My photographs have helped sell over 6,500 homes in Wisconsin over the past ten years, and these simple tips consistently make the biggest difference for sellers, Realtors, and short-term rental owners alike.
All lights are on, shades are open, personal items have been removed from countertops and the space is clean.
Why Preparation Matters
Buyers and renters scroll fast. Clean, well-lit photos stop the scroll and invite people to imagine themselves in the space. Preparing your home ahead of time helps highlight its best features, makes rooms feel larger, and ensures you get the most value from your photography investment.
Whether your goal is to sell quickly, book more nights, or stand out in a competitive market, these steps will help your property shine.
The bathroom is clean, shutters and shades are open, shampoo and personal care items were removed.
Interior Prep: Bright, Clean & Clutter-Free
Start by letting the light in. Open all blinds and curtains, turn on every interior light (including lamps), and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Bright spaces photograph better and feel more welcoming.
Clear countertops in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms so surfaces look spacious and tidy. Put away small personal items like toothbrushes, soaps, papers, remotes, pet bowls, and floor mats. Make beds neatly, straighten furniture, and tuck away trash cans, cords, and everyday clutter.
If possible, remove personal photos and wipe down mirrors and windows to eliminate smudges that show up on camera.
Window shades are open, all lights are on, patio furniture is clean and well placed, any trash cans or yard equipment has been removed from the exterior area.
Exterior Prep: Curb Appeal Counts
In Wisconsin, curb appeal is just as important as what’s inside. Move cars out of the driveway and away from the front of the home. Hide trash bins, garden hoses, toys, and tools.
Straighten patio furniture, open umbrellas if you have them, sweep walkways and porches, and make sure garage doors are closed. These small details help create a clean, welcoming first impression online.
Curtains are open, the bed is made neatly, personal photos and items were removed, the space is clean and neat.
Pets, People & Final Notes
We love pets — but for photos, it’s best to secure them away from photographed areas and keep people out of the home during the session if possible. Please note that photographers don’t move heavy furniture or clean surfaces, so all cleaning, staging, and decluttering should be completed before arrival. A photo-ready home ensures the best results and avoids the need for reshoots.
Ready to Get Started?
Great photos help homes sell faster, and rentals book more often. If you have questions before your session, we’re always happy to help. A little prep goes a long way — and your listing will thank you for it.