Published September 17, 2025

📸 Preparing Your Home for Photos & Showings

Author Avatar

Written by Samantha Catterall

📸 Preparing Your Home for Photos & Showings header image.

📸 Preparing Your Home for Photos & Showings

First impressions matter—especially in real estate. In today’s digital world, buyers often fall in love with a home online before they ever step through the door. That’s why preparing your home for photos and showings is one of the most important steps in the selling process.

As a Realtor, I bring in professional photographers (and even use my own drone footage) to make sure your property shines. But the magic starts with preparation. Here’s how you can get your home ready for its spotlight:


🧹 Step 1: Declutter & Deep Clean

  • Clear countertops, tables, and visible surfaces.

  • Pack away personal items like family photos, paperwork, and toys.

  • Deep clean floors, windows, and bathrooms so everything feels fresh.
    ✨ Tip: Less is more—buyers want to see your space, not your stuff.


🪞 Step 2: Stage with Intention

  • Arrange furniture to highlight open spaces and flow.

  • Add small touches: fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit, or neutral décor.

  • Use soft lighting and open blinds to create a bright, welcoming atmosphere.
    ✨ Tip: Think of it like setting the stage for buyers to imagine their life in your home.


🛠 Step 3: Fix the Little Things

  • Tighten loose handles, replace light bulbs, and touch up paint.

  • Make sure doors and windows open smoothly.

  • A well-maintained home signals to buyers that you’ve cared for the property.


🚁 Step 4: Elevate with Professional Photography & Drone Shots

This is where my team takes over. I use professional photography and aerial drone footage to showcase your home’s best features:

  • Wide-angle shots that highlight open layouts

  • Close-ups of details that make your home unique

  • Drone views to show off land, location, and neighborhood perspective

Buyers scrolling through listings online are far more likely to click on a property with stunning, high-quality visuals.


🚪 Step 5: Be Showing-Ready

Once photos are complete, keep your home showing-ready:

  • Do a quick tidy each morning.

  • Take pets out during showings if possible.

  • Add a subtle scent (but avoid anything overpowering).

✨ Tip: A clean, neutral, inviting space helps buyers picture themselves living there.


🌟 Final Thoughts

Preparing your home for photos and showings may take a little extra effort, but it pays off in more interest, faster offers, and often a higher sale price. With professional marketing and the right prep, your home will truly stand out.


Thinking About Selling?

I’d love to walk you through the process step by step. From staging advice to professional photos and drone video, I’ll make sure your home looks its absolute best online and in person.

Contact Samantha Catterall and Shannon Casey | Keller Williams Coastal and Lakes & Mountains

Categories

Home Selling Tips, Real Estate Advice
home

Are you buying or selling a home?

Buying
Selling
Both
home

When are you planning on buying a new home?

1-3 Mo
3-6 Mo
6+ Mo
home

Are you pre-approved for a mortgage?

Yes
No
Using Cash
home

Would you like to schedule a consultation now?

Yes
No

When would you like us to call?

Thanks! We’ll give you a call as soon as possible.

home

When are you planning on selling your home?

1-3 Mo
3-6 Mo
6+ Mo

Would you like to schedule a consultation or see your home value?

Schedule Consultation
My Home Value

or another way