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Airbnb Photo Prep Checklist for Short-Term Rentals

Get your rental guest-ready before the shoot. Photos of a staged, clean space book more nights, and it means no reshoots. Most rentals take about an hour to prep.

The day beforeDeep clean and make beds with fresh linens.
An hour beforeLights on, blinds open, cars moved.
During the shootAbout 1 hour for photos. We can move small items for you.

Room by Room

Work through each card. The more you do, the better your listing looks to guests.

Whole rental

  • Turn on every light and lamp, and replace burned-out bulbs
  • Open all blinds and curtains
  • Turn off ceiling fans and TVs
  • Remove the owner's personal items and clutter
  • Hide pet items and cleaning supplies

Kitchen and coffee bar

  • Clear counters except a coffee station and one decor piece
  • Put away dish soap, sponges and towels
  • Hide trash cans and extra appliances
  • Clean the stovetop, sink and fridge front

Living and dining

  • Fluff pillows and fold throws on the couch
  • Clear tables, keep a book or a plant for style
  • Hide remotes, chargers and cords
  • Push in dining chairs evenly

Bedrooms

  • Make every bed with fresh, crisp white or neutral linens
  • Stage pillows and a folded throw at the foot
  • Clear nightstands except a lamp
  • Hide luggage, clothes and shoes
  • Close closet doors

Bathrooms

  • Clear counters, showers and tubs of products
  • Hang fresh, matching towels or roll them neatly
  • Hide trash cans and plungers
  • Remove bath mats and close toilet lids

Outdoors and drone

  • Uncover and clean the hot tub, and turn the lights on
  • Arrange patio and deck furniture, and clean the grill
  • Set up the fire pit seating and the string lights
  • Move cars out of the driveway and off the street in front

Heavy items and guest touches

We'll move small items during the shoot, but heavy furniture should be in place before we arrive. Fresh linens, a coffee bar and clean outdoor seating make the biggest difference on Airbnb and VRBO.

Rental Ready? Book the Shoot.

Pick your Airbnb package and a time online. Free drone where airspace and weather allow, a floor plan, and photos in 24 hours or less.