In Southern California's competitive market with high property prices, quality visuals are expected. Buyers demand standout listings, and high-end photography is only as great as the house itself. To maximize sales price, sellers and agents must make the property sparkle. Proper prep ensures visuals highlight features, attracting more interest and better offers. These images live online forever, so focus on privacy and appeal. While we do a lot to make properties stand out—spending 40+ hours editing one set when needed—we can't do that for every $325 shoot on simple items like toothbrushes or trash cans. Clean and hide them beforehand to get the most from our editing time.
With intense competition, your listing must shine. High-quality visuals drive leads and sales, but prep is key. Remove personal identifying items to protect privacy—strangers will see these online indefinitely. We photoshop minor issues, but moving clutter first yields better results and saves time. You're selling and moving soon, so start packing unused items.
Declutter to make rooms feel open. Use the garage or non-walk-in closets for storage—buyers know what garages look like, so fill them (exceptions for nice man caves, shops with cabinetry, or laundry areas). Clean surfaces, floors, windows, fans, vents, and fixtures. Turn off ceiling fans to avoid blur.
Kitchens are crucial—make them very clean. Clear counters: Hide drying racks, dishes, pots, pans. Remove refrigerator magnets, family photos, top items. Folded ladders next to fridges go away. Trash cans aren't attractive—hide in pantry or garage. The space should look ready for use, boosting appeal in high-price markets.
Bathrooms get close scrutiny. Lower toilet seats/lids always. Clear counters: No toothbrushes, shampoos, plugged-in items, used towels. Stage with clean towels and attractive soaps. Clean mirrors/glass. Hide trash cans/supplies. Aim for a fancy hotel room feel—unpacked and pristine.
Neat beds with neutral linens. Tidy nightstands/dressers—remove personal items. Arrange living room furniture for flow; fluff pillows, fold blankets. Hide toys, equipment, remotes. Open curtains for light, ensure clear views.
Remove photos, diplomas, religious/political items, mail, bills, or named decor. These stay online forever, visible to strangers. In tenant properties, we can't move belongings—ask them to tidy.
Front is often the key shot (unless backyard has pools/entertainment). Mow lawn, trim hedges, weed gardens. Hide hoses, tools, toys. Trash cans/recycling go in garage—drones see all sides, so no outdoor hiding. Sweep driveways/porches.
Turn on interior lights, open blinds/curtains. Replace burnt bulbs. Set comfortable thermostat. Add neutral decor if staging.
We edit distractions, but can't spend 40+ hours on every $325 shoot for easily hidden items. Prep maximizes our editing for standout visuals.
It's common for sellers to move items room-to-room—okay, but communicate ahead. It takes time and can rush us, especially for twilight (20-minute window) or drone (FAA timing). Let us shoot one room first, then help move items there. Remember, buyers will see the home in person—pack and hide in garages/closets for real showings too.
Complete prep before arrival to avoid delays. Shoots vary:
Full packages: 3-4 hours; larger up to 6-12. Usually one team member with camera/tripod/lighting. Premium subscribers may have up to two more for notes/measuring/filming (total three). Twilight rushes if prep eats time—perfect lighting is short. Avoid same-day services like carpet cleaning; we time for best results, but delays can make drone flights illegal post-FAA windows.
This prep supports effective marketing, helping attract leads in competitive areas.
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