Real estate · Shoot prep
Listing Video
Prep Checklist
A camera sees everything. Twenty minutes of prep the day before makes the difference between a nice video and one that sells the home. Work through this list, and if anything's unclear, just call.
The Day Before
- Clear kitchen and bathroom counters down to one or two decorative items
- Put away personal photos, mail, keys, chargers and paperwork
- Hide trash cans, laundry baskets, pet bowls, beds and toys
- Clean mirrors, glass doors and windows (they show every smudge on camera)
- Mow, edge and clear the yard; put away hoses, tools and kids' toys
- Sweep the porch, walkway and driveway
Lighting
- Open every blind and curtain
- Turn on every light, including lamps, under-cabinet and exterior lights
- Replace any burnt-out bulbs, ideally all the same color temperature
- Turn ceiling fans off (moving blades look distracting on video)
- Turn TVs and screens off
Room by Room
- Kitchen: clear the fridge front of magnets and papers; dish rack and sponges out of sight
- Bathrooms: fresh towels hung neatly, toilet lids down, toiletries and razors put away
- Bedrooms: beds made with smooth bedding, nightstands cleared, closets closed
- Living areas: pillows fluffed, throws folded, remotes and clutter put away
- Garage and storage: doors closed unless they're a selling point
Shoot Day
- Move cars out of the driveway and away from the front of the house
- Plan for occupants and pets to be out during the shoot
- Allow about 1 to 2 hours on site, depending on the size of the home
- Leave access to every room you want featured, plus the backyard
- Drone footage depends on weather and local airspace; I'll confirm the day before
Agents Appearing on Camera
- Wear solid colors; avoid thin stripes, small patterns and logos
- Bring a second outfit if you'd like options for social media cut-downs
- Jot down 3 or 4 features you want to highlight about the home
Questions before the shoot? Call 215-962-8879 or email info@mattdietzvideo.com.