Key takeaways
- Clean and declutter before photos. Photos capture everything.
- A deep clean, inside and out, helps your home look cared for online and in person.
- On photo day: lights on, blinds open, counters clear, cars and pets out of view.
- Photos need to accurately represent the property. Editing shouldn’t hide defects.
- Keep the home photo-ready after the shoot. Showings start soon after you go live.
Why cleaning and photos matter
Your listing photos are often the first showing. They decide whether a buyer schedules a visit. A clean, bright, uncluttered home photographs better and shows better, and it signals to buyers that the property has been cared for. Start this step after you’ve handled the basics in preparing your home.
Deep cleaning checklist
For your own planning. Checking items doesn’t send anything to Clever Realtors.
Should you hire a professional cleaner?
A professional deep clean can save time and reach details that are easy to miss, especially if you’re still living in the home or moving at the same time. When hiring, ask about:
- Exactly what’s included, such as inside appliances, windows, or carpets
- Insurance and who will be in your home
- Timing, so cleaning finishes before photo day
- Whether a touch-up visit before listing is available
We can refer you to cleaning providers if you’d like. You’re always free to choose your own.
Photo day checklist
For your own planning. Checking items doesn’t send anything to Clever Realtors.
Photos, video, and aerial images
Professional listing photography is the foundation. Depending on the property, it can be paired with video, a virtual tour, a floor plan, or aerial images. Which of these are included is spelled out in your listing agreement.
- Accurate representation: photos should show the property as it is. Light editing is normal, but editing shouldn’t remove permanent features or hide defects.
- Aerial images: commercial drone operators must follow FAA rules, including certification requirements. Ask whether your photographer is properly certified.
- Privacy and security: remove documents, mail, and anything that reveals personal information or security details before photos.
We arrange professional listing photography as part of preparing your listing.
After photo day
Your listing usually goes live shortly after photos are ready, and showings can start right away. Keep the home close to photo-ready, and see what comes next in marketing and showings.
Watch: Cleaning service and photographers before listing
Frequently asked questions
How long after cleaning should photos be taken?
As soon as possible, ideally within a day or two, so the home is at its best.
How long does it take to get listing photos back?
It varies by photographer and the media ordered. Often it’s a few days. Plan your listing date accordingly.
Can I take my own listing photos?
Phone photos are rarely as effective as professional images with the right lenses, lighting, and editing. Talk with your agent about what’s included in your listing.
Should I be home during the photo shoot?
It’s usually easier if you’re available briefly at the start and then let the photographer work room by room without people or pets in the shots.
What time of day is best for photos?
It depends on your home’s orientation. Your photographer can suggest the best light. Some exteriors look great at twilight.
Sources and further reading
This article is general information. Services included with a listing are defined in your listing agreement.
