General

  • Clean the entire home (like you’re expecting guests)
  • Turn on all lights and replace burnt-out bulbs with matching new bulbs
  • Open blinds/curtains for natural light
  • Remove clutter from surfaces (less is more)
  • If you have a collage wall of family photos, please reduce down to very few photos and consider swapping out the prints of your family with landscapes.

Kitchen

  • Clear countertops (leave only 1–2 decorative items)
  • Hide trash cans, soap bottles, sponges
  • Remove fridge magnets/papers

Living Areas

  • Declutter surfaces
  • Hide remotes, cords, and pet items
  • Fluff pillows and straighten furniture

Bedrooms

  • Make beds neatly
  • Remove personal items and excess decor (small bedroom closets are fine to hide these things and will not be photographed)
  • Clear nightstands and dressers

Exterior

  • Mow lawn, trim edges
  • Move cars out of your driveway and park at least two houses down the street
  • Hide trash cans, hoses, tools

Garage

  • Will not be photographed*. So this is a great place to (neatly) place stuff for temporary hiding!
  • Unless you have a very cool garage. Then go ahead and make it pretty!

Pets

  • Secure pets and remove bowls, beds, toys