Airbnb Photo Prep & Staging Checklist

General Prep (Applies to All Rooms/Spaces)

• Deep clean all interior and exterior areas
• Replace any dead lightbulbs with warm-white, matching temperature
• Turn on all lights for brightness, even during the day
• Open all curtains/blinds to let in natural light
• Remove any personal items, clutter, or brand labels
• Hide all trash cans, cords, remotes, or unattractive items
• Hide everything not intentional
• All lights on — both overhead and lamp/sconce
• Hide all cables: TVs, Lamps, Electronics, Coffee Machines, etc.

Interior Staging

Living Room: Arrange furniture for conversation and flow

• Fluff pillows, fold throws, style coffee table (tray, book, candle, or plant)
• Turn off TV; turn on fireplace if you have one
• All table lamps are on

Kitchen:

• Clear counters except 1-2 tasteful items: cutting board with fruit, olive oil bottle, etc.
• Clean all appliances and sinks to a shine
• Style a coffee nook or bar setup with mugs or wine glasses
• Add a bottle of wine or welcome basket if available

Dining Room:

• Minimal table setting for 4–6 (plates, napkins, stemware, placemat, centerpiece)
• Center a floral arrangement or fruit bowl

Bedrooms:

• Make beds with hotel-style precision (layers, fluffed pillows, throws)
• Nightstands: lamp, book, maybe a small flower or water carafe
• Hide all personal items and clothing
• Fluff all bedding, straighten every pillow, adjust all blinds

Bathrooms:

• Roll or fold towels neatly (1 hand towel, 1 bath towel per visible space)
• Remove all personal products
• Add a neutral decorative item (mini plant, candle, soap dish)
• Clean mirrors, polish faucets

Outdoor Areas (Luxury Lifestyle Focus)

Pool Area:

• Skim pool, vacuum if needed, make sure water is crystal clear
• Lay out 2–4 pool towels in a styled way
• Set up lounge chairs with pillows and rolled towels
• Add a small side table with a pitcher of water and glasses or a styled tray
• Consider staging pool floats if high-end and tasteful

Hot Tub:

• Open cover and turn on jets for photos
• Add rolled towels nearby, optional wine glasses on edge
• Clean thoroughly to avoid any debris/foam buildup
• Outdoor Grill / Dining Area
• Clean grill, remove any residue

Set table for outdoor dining (plates, glasses, centerpiece, napkins)

• Add styling details: fresh herbs, drink pitcher, citronella candle

Fire Pit:

• Arrange seating in a cozy, symmetrical way
• Add folded blankets or throws on chairs
• Stage the fire pit with firewood or gas flame on (if safe)
• Add marshmallows or wine glasses nearby to hint at experience

Other Outdoor Spaces:

• Mow lawn, rake leaves, sweep patios
• Hide hoses, tools, or equipment
• Light outdoor string lights (if any) for dusk shots