Whole House
- Turn every light on — lamps, sconces, under-cabinet
- Replace any burned-out bulbs
- Open all blinds and curtains
- Turn ceiling fans and TVs off
- Hide cords, chargers, and remotes
- Clear floors — shoes, toys, pet beds, boxes
- Tuck trash cans and laundry baskets away
- Light switch plates & doors: fingerprint check
Kitchen & Baths
- Clear counters — small appliances off, one décor item max
- Hide sponges, soaps, dish racks, and towels with logos
- Remove everything from the fridge door
- Close toilet lids
- Fresh towels, neatly hung — solid colors photograph best
- Clear the shower of bottles and razors
- Mirrors: streak check
- Empty and hide bathroom trash cans
Bedrooms & Living
- Beds made, pillows karate-chopped
- Nightstands clear — lamp and a book, that's it
- Straighten pillows and throws
- Hide personal photos where practical
- Clear desks and dressers
- Closet doors closed
Outside & Curb
- Cars out of the driveway — and off the street in front
- Garage doors closed
- Hoses coiled, bins hidden, toys picked up
- Lawn mowed, walkways swept
- Patio cushions on, umbrella up
- Pool cover off, water features on
- Porch lights on (especially for twilight)
- Doormats straight or removed
Pets & People
- Pets and their bowls, crates & litter boxes out of sight
- Plan for everyone to step outside or ahead of the camera
- Leave lockbox / gate codes with your agent
Booked virtual staging? The rooms being staged need to be vacant — completely cleared of furniture before we arrive. Booked twilight? Every interior and exterior light on before golden hour, please. Questions the morning of? Email hello@theshowingstudio.com — we answer fast on shoot days.