Seller Resources • October 9, 2026

How should I prepare my home for listing photos, showings and open houses?

Prepare your home for listing photos

Getting your home ready for listing photos and showings begins with cleaning, decluttering, and creating an inviting appearance. According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), preparing a home for marketing can help buyers appreciate its features and imagine living there. Clean windows, clear countertops, and organized rooms can make spaces appear brighter and more welcoming.

Before photography, remove unnecessary personal items, straighten furniture, and address small maintenance issues. Make sure light fixtures work, open window coverings, and tidy outdoor areas. Professional photography can highlight the home’s best features, but good preparation helps make those images more effective.

Make your home welcoming for showings

Once your home is listed, maintaining its appearance becomes an ongoing priority. NAR recommends keeping floors clean, beds made, counters clear, and rooms organized before each showing. Pay attention to odors, comfortable temperatures, and lighting. These small details can influence how buyers experience the property.

Consider developing a simple routine that makes preparing for appointments easier. Secure valuables, medications, and personal documents, and arrange for pets to be elsewhere during visits when possible. Sellers should also discuss showing schedules with their agent to balance buyer access with their daily activities.

Prepare for open houses and buyer visits

An open house allows several prospective buyers to view a property during a scheduled period. Realtor.com recommends preparing much as you would for a private showing, with particular attention to cleanliness, clutter, and the home’s overall presentation. The entrance, kitchen, bathrooms, and main living areas deserve careful attention.

Before the event, remove valuables and sensitive information, secure personal belongings, and make arrangements for pets. Your agent can explain how visitors will be managed and whether an open house makes sense for your property. For sellers in Pittsburgh’s North Hills, the goal is consistent presentation across online photos, private showings, and open houses so buyers can focus on the home’s features and condition.

Are you thinking about your next move? Do you have more questions? Click here to contact me and plan your strategy.

Sources
National Association of REALTORS®
Consumer Guide: Marketing Your Home
Consumer Guide: Seller Checklist, 15 Things to Do Before Every Showing
Realtor.com
What Is an Open House? Answers and Advice for Home Sellers
9 Insider Secrets to Making Your Listing Photos Shine
*Includes AI-generated content.