Make sure items are put away and there is nothing on the floor, table tops or countertops, except for complimentary ornamentation. (all flat surfaces are clear and clean).
Have carpets vacuumed and floors swept.
Have all windows, mirrors, walls & ceilings washed, as the camera can pick up even the smallest of details.
Have any personal items removed (especially in bathrooms).
Consider possibly scaling back some decorations (less is way more).
If you have a fireplace, have it lit before the photographer arrives, as they tend to fog when first lit. If it’s natural, use newspaper as it burns fast and bright.
Turn all interior lighting on. Lights, lamps, accent lights, etc.
Have as few small appliances on the kitchen counter as possible and make sure the counter has been freshly wiped (the shine is appealing).
Hide or bundle up all wires around electronics stations (computer desks, home entertainment units, etc.) as well as any other miscellaneous items (video game boxes, cd jackets, software packing, etc.).
Make sure the landscaping is current (grass cut, with no clippings, gardens maintained, etc.).
Make sure the garage door is closed.
If in the winter, make sure that the driveway, walkways and decks are all shovelled and dry.
Make sure the beds are well made with complimentary coverings.
Open all coverings to your windows, unless the view is undesirable.
Put out place settings at the dinner table.
Remove all personal effects from the refrigerator, walls, table tops and shelves.
Remove all vehicles from the driveway and if it’s sunny, hose it down (the shine it gives is very appealing).
Remove any furniture indentations in carpeting using either a steamer or letting an ice cube melt and “working” the fibers up with a spoon.
Close all closet doors.
Turn off all ceiling fans.
Put away all pet effects (cages, crates, beds, food dishes, toys, etc.).
Ensure that all pets are contained.
If a piano is present, have it open but without a music book on the stand.
Make sure all surfaces are dusted.
Make sure all cupboards are closed.
Consider having some candles lit, especially at the dinner table.
Consider putting out a few flowers.
Don’t worry about your laundry room as it won’t be photographed (this is a good place to store stuff for the shoot).
