13 Steps to Get Your Home Camera Ready
- Serj Markarian
- Jun 15
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 6
To get a home camera ready, follow these 13 steps focusing on deep cleaning, decluttering, and staging. The goal is to create a bright, spacious, and welcoming atmosphere that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the home.
General and overall
Deep clean everything. Polish every reflective surface—especially oversized windows, stainless appliances, and hardwood floors. Manhattan buyers notice streaks against skyline backdrops. Don’t forget to dust radiators, AC units, and baseboards (they show in wide-angle shots)
Depersonalize the space. Remove family photos, children’s art, or paperwork on the fridge. Replace with neutral, stylish touches—a framed black-and-white print or a curated coffee-table book that nods to NYC living.
Declutter all rooms. In Manhattan, space is the ultimate luxury. Store away extra chairs, shoe racks by the door, or piles of Amazon packages. If closets are packed, consider temporary storage (buyers here often open every closet).
Maximize light. Pull up shades, open curtains fully, and remove heavy drapes. If the unit faces another building, use sheer panels to soften the view while letting light in. Replace all bulbs with warm, uniform lighting.
Room-specific steps
Master the kitchen. NYC buyers expect clean, sleek kitchens—even small ones. Clear counters completely (appliances included). Hide dish soap, sponges, and garbage bins. Add one stylish element like a bowl of lemons or a vase of fresh flowers.
Perfect the bedrooms. In smaller Manhattan bedrooms, scale is key. Make the bed with crisp white or neutral linens to create a hotel-like look. Remove bulky dressers or nightstands that crowd the space. Tuck away all personal items and clothing.
Clean the bathrooms. NYC bathrooms can be tight, so minimalism matters. Remove every toiletry, close toilet lids, and use matching white towels. A small plant or a candle can add polish, but avoid clutter.
Tidy up the living areas. Straighten bookshelves, fluff sofa cushions, and fold throws neatly. Hide exposed cords from TVs or lamps. If the living room doubles as dining, style the table with simple settings to highlight flexibility of space.
Stage outdoor spaces (if you’re lucky enough to have them). For terraces, balconies, or rooftop access—sweep thoroughly, remove personal items, and stage with compact outdoor furniture. Add greenery for a vibrant, inviting feel.
Final touches
Clear the street view. If you live in a townhouse or brownstone, move bikes, strollers, and garbage bins out of sight. For apartments, coordinate with the doorman or super to keep hallways clear during the shoot.
Turn off all electronics. Ensure all ceiling fans, TVs, and computer screens are off before the photographer arrives to avoid motion blur or reflections in the final images.
Hide pet evidence. Remove all pet food bowls, beds, and toys. If possible, arrange for pets to be away from the home during the shoot.
Do one last walkthrough. Before the photographer arrives, walk through the home as if you’re a buyer seeing it for the first time. Check for things like exposed extension cords, cluttered window sills, or overflowing recycling bins. Small details stand out in photos and can cheapen a million-dollar listing.
Serj Markarian
