How to Prepare Your Home for Listing Photos (and What to Expect)
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions aren’t just important — they’re everything. In today’s digital-first real estate world, your listing photos are the deciding factor in whether a buyer schedules a showing… or keeps scrolling.
As Livingston County’s trusted listing team, we’ve photographed hundreds of homes across Brighton, Hartland, Howell, Pinckney, and beyond. Here’s your complete, easy-to-follow guide to preparing your home for listing photos — plus what you can expect on photo day.
✨ Why Listing Photos Matter More Than Ever
More than 90% of buyers start their home search online. That means your photos are your first showing. A clean, bright, well-styled home instantly attracts more attention, creates emotional connection, and ultimately leads to more showings and stronger offers.
📋 The Pre-Photo Checklist: How to Get Your Home Camera-Ready
1. Declutter Every Room
Think “less is more.”
- Clear countertops, nightstands, and dressers
- Hide trash cans
- Remove personal items like family photos, calendars, and paperwork
- Tuck away toys, pet items, and bulky decor
A decluttered home looks larger, brighter, and more move-in ready.
2. Deep Clean… and Then Clean Again
Professional-level cleanliness makes a huge difference on camera.
Focus on:
- Floors — vacuum + mop
- Glass + mirrors — streak-free
- Kitchen appliances
- Bathrooms — scrubbed, sanitized, and sparkling
- Dusting ceiling fans, blinds, and baseboards
If you’re short on time, we can recommend trusted local cleaners who specialize in listing prep.
3. Light It Up
Bright homes photograph best. Before your photographer arrives:
- Open all blinds + curtains
- Replace burnt-out bulbs
- Turn on every light in the home
Natural light + warm interior lighting = a winning combo.
4. Create Simple, Neutral Styling
A few strategic touches can elevate your photos instantly:
- Add fresh throw pillows
- Use simple, neutral bedding
- Place a small plant on a table or counter
- Add fresh towels in the bathroom
Avoid anything overly bold or busy.
5. Make Exterior Shine
Buyers always check curb appeal first.
- Mow lawn + edge
- Sweep porch and walkways
- Remove cars from driveway
- Tidy landscaping
- Add a simple, fresh welcome mat
Even in Michigan winters, clean and uncluttered exterior shots help buyers picture themselves pulling in after a long day.
6. Hide Anything “Distracting”
Photographers can only do so much editing. Before photos, make sure to hide:
- Cords + chargers
- Kitchen towels
- Shampoo bottles
- Litter boxes + pet crates
- TV remotes
- Laundry baskets
Small details matter — and the cleaner the frame, the more elevated the photos.
📅 What to Expect on Photo Day
Once your home is prepped, here’s how the process works:
We arrive 10–15 minutes early to walk through the home.
We’ll make minor adjustments — straighten chairs, adjust pillows, move small items — to get each space perfectly framed.
The photographer will shoot interior, exterior, and key features.
Depending on your package, this may include drone shots and neighborhood highlights.
Plan to step out during photos.
This helps the photographer move room to room quickly and uninterrupted.
You’ll receive final edited photos within 24–48 hours.
We’ll approve them together before the listing goes live.
🎯 The Goal: Help Your Home Shine Online
The better the photos, the stronger your first impression — which leads to more showings, more interest, and a smoother sale. Our team guides you every step of the way so you never feel overwhelmed.
If you’re thinking about listing in Livingston County, our prep process takes the stress off your plate and helps your home stand out in any market.
Call or text Pat Lotz at 734-637-3668 to start planning your listing.
