SELLER RESOURCES

Staging & Photography: How to Make Your Home Look Its Best (and Stand Out Online)

Most buyers decide whether to tour a home based on photos.

Use a simple staging plan and pro media to create stronger first impressions—without overdoing it.

A black and white check mark in a circle on a white background.

ROI-first staging guidance (light vs full)

A black and white check mark in a circle on a white background.

Photo-day prep plan that reduces stress

A black and white check mark in a circle on a white background.

Pro photography/video options (property-dependent)

A black and white check mark in a circle on a white background.

Calm timelines and clear next steps

Presentation can improve buyer perception, but results and final sale price depend on market conditions, property features, and buyer demand.

Why Staging and Professional Photos Matter


Online presentation drives clicks, tours, and offer momentum.

Strong media helps buyers understand the home, imagine life there, and feel confident scheduling a showing.

What good presentation can do:

Increase perceived value

Reduce buyer objections (mess/visual noise)

Highlight space, flow, and light

Make the home feel cared for

Staging Options: What’s Right for Your Home?


  • 1) Light staging (most common)

    Declutter + simplify + a few strategic improvements.

    Ideal for occupied homes.

  • 2) Partial staging

    Focus on key rooms (living room, kitchen, primary bedroom) to create a strong visual story.

  • 3) Full staging (often for vacant homes or premium segments)

    Professional staging can help define space and elevate presentation when the market and price point support it.

Note : We recommend the level of staging that fits your home, price point, and local competition.

Get a tailored staging plan

The Photo-day Playbook (Simple, Stress-free)


48 Hours Before Photos

Declutter surfaces (counters, nightstands, desks)

Remove personal photos and valuables

Finish small repairs and touch-ups

Plan where pets will be during photos

Morning of Photo Day

All lights on (replace burnt bulbs)

Open blinds/curtains for natural light

Clear sinks and showers; hide toiletries

Remove trash and recycling

Make beds; tidy closets (buyers peek)

Clear driveway (if possible) and tidy outdoor areas

Final 10-minute Sweep

Put away cords, remotes, small clutter

Quick wipe of mirrors and glass

Ensure towels are neat; toilet lids down

Room-by-room Photo Tips


Kitchen

Clear counters (keep 1–2 items max)

Hide dish racks, soaps, sponges

Clean appliances and sink

Living areas

Minimize furniture to open walkways

Straighten pillows/throws; remove excess decor

Hide cords and chargers

Bedrooms

Crisp bed; simple nightstands

Reduce closet contents to show space

Bathrooms

Clear counters; hide toiletries

Fresh towels; spotless mirrors/fixtures

Outdoor spaces

Sweep patios/porches

Store bins, hoses, toys

Clean entry and add simple curb appeal

Professional Media Options (Property-dependent)

What media can include:

Professional photography

Video walkthrough (when appropriate)

Drone (where safe/legal/beneficial)

3D tour (when it fits the home)

Floor plan / layout visuals (when available)

Why it helps:

Stronger first impression online

Better understanding of space and flow

More confident touring decisions

Privacy and Security During Media and Showings

We’ll help you protect privacy while still presenting the home well.

Suggested steps:

Remove valuables, prescriptions, and sensitive documents

Secure personal photos and unique identifiers

Damaged trim, obvious holes, scuffs

Discuss any privacy concerns before publishing media

Note : We can tailor what’s shown publicly based on your comfort level and the home’s needs.

When Staging Matters Most

Staging tends to have the biggest impact when:

The home is occupied and visually “busy”

The layout needs help showing purpose

The home competes in a crowded price bracket

The home is vacant and feels cold/empty

Want a Plan Tailored to Your Home?


Get a value range, a net sheet estimate, and a prep + media plan aligned with your timeline.

What Clients Say

Quotation

"Brandon was amazing! He helped my husband get into our first home together! He is a fierce agent and was there the entire way for us! He not only kept contact during the sale but continues to ask how the house is treating us!!! Highly recommend him!!"

Zillow Review

Quotation

"I worked with Brandon for a few months looking around. When my moving situation changed in January, I decided that I needed to get a house by February. I called Brandon January 7th and we had house viewings scheduled for the following afternoon. We were under contract with a seller in three days and closed the 31st. Brandon drove multiple times to the property to help with contracts. I felt like I was his only client. I will certainly call him again when I'm ready to sell or buy a second property."

Joshua Thompson - Zillow Review

Quotation

"Brandon worked with us all summer to help us find our house in Louisville. My wife and I operate on non-traditional schedules and Brandon always made time to meet us for showings. Once under contract, Brandon made the process enjoyable and easy. We bought an old property and had a lot of back and forth with the inspections and disclosures and Brandon's expertise helped us close a good deal. If you want an enjoyable home buying experience, I highly recommend working with Brandon."

Bought a Single Family home in Louisville, CO.

Quotation

"This group was fantastic with selling our home do to a out of state relation! They did research and suggested a market price over what I ever dreamed we would sell for. Thankfully we listen to there suggestions and sold in no time. Brandon was amazing with his quick response to my questions at all times of the day. He made sure to update us with any information as we went through the process. This attentiveness and professionalism made closing a breeze!"

Anna Rochlitz

Read More Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions


  • 1) Do I have to stage my home to sell?

    Not always. Many homes do well with light staging—decluttering, cleaning, and a few targeted changes.

  • 2) Should I do professional photos?

    Professional photography is strongly recommended because online presentation impacts tours and buyer confidence.

  • 3) What’s the best time of day for photos?

    It depends on natural light and home orientation. We’ll coordinate timing to capture the home at its best.

  • 4) What should I remove before photos?

    Personal photos, valuables, cluttered surfaces, pet items, and anything that distracts from space and light.

  • 5) Can you help with cleaners, stagers, or contractors?

    Yes. We can connect you with trusted local experts to help prep efficiently.

  • 6) Will photos and video stay online forever?

    Listings typically stay online for a period of time and may be cached by third parties. If privacy is a concern, we’ll discuss options.