Home Staging Checklist
Work through this room by room before the photographer arrives and before every showing. Tap to tick — your progress is saved on this device.
Facts checked October 2026
Exterior & curb appeal
Power wash driveway, walkway and porch
Clean surfaces make a strong first impression.
Mow, trim and edge
Neat landscaping signals a well-kept home.
Add fresh plants at the entry
A small spend that warms up photos.
Clean or repaint the front door
It appears in almost every exterior photo.
Clear the driveway
Move cars, bins, hoses and tools out of sight.
Wash exterior windows
Streaks show up in photos.
Check outdoor lights
Replace bulbs; buyers drive by at night.
Living areas
Remove about 40% of the furniture
Floor space makes rooms feel bigger.
Arrange seating around the focal point
Fireplace, view or feature wall — not the TV.
Put away personal photos
Help buyers picture their own life there.
Open every blind and curtain
Light sells homes.
Add one or two neutral accents
A throw or cushion — think hotel lobby.
Clean floors, baseboards and walls
Scuffs are magnified in photos.
Touch up paint
Neutral tones photograph best.
Kitchen
Clear all countertops
Counter space is what buyers want to see.
Deep clean appliances inside and out
Buyers open ovens and fridges.
Degrease cabinets and polish hardware
Small details read as care.
Clean the sink and faucet
Remove limescale.
Hide bins and recycling
Keep the space aspirational.
Add one styling touch
A plant or a bowl of lemons — one item only.
Check every light
Replace burnt bulbs, including under-cabinet lights.
Bedrooms
Make beds with crisp neutral bedding
White or light grey photographs best.
Clear the nightstands
A lamp and one book, nothing else.
Edit the closets
Remove about 40% so storage looks generous.
Remove extra furniture
Bed, nightstands and a dresser are enough.
Clean mirrors and windows
They catch the camera flash.
Bathrooms
Clear the counters
Store everything out of sight.
Deep clean tub, shower and toilet
Remove soap scum and mildew.
Re-caulk where needed
Peeling caulk is a common buyer objection.
Replace a worn toilet seat
Inexpensive and effective.
Hang fresh white towels
Never your everyday towels.
Check the exhaust fan
A noisy or dirty fan suggests moisture issues.
Before every showing
Turn on every light
Bright homes feel bigger.
Set a comfortable temperature
About 20–22°C.
Open interior doors
Open doors create flow.
Take pets and their things with you
Bowls, beds and litter boxes too.
Freshen the air
Open windows for 10 minutes; skip strong scents.
Leave the property
Buyers stay longer when you're not there.
Lock away valuables and medications
Keep personal items secure.
Want a second pair of eyes?
I walk every listing with a buyer's eye and tell you what to fix, what to leave, and what isn't worth the money.