Free resource · 03

The staging checklist

The room-by-room staging checklist I walk through with every seller before photo day. Check items off as you go — your progress saves on this device.

Print checklist Email me the PDF

A staged white kitchen — my free staging checklist gets every room photo-ready

01

Curb appeal

Mow, edge and fresh mulch in the beds
Power-wash the driveway, walkway and porch
Clean or paint the front door; polish the hardware
Add two potted plants and a simple, neutral doormat
Make sure the house numbers are easy to read
Replace burnt-out porch and landscape lights
Clear hoses, toys and trash cans out of sight

02

Entry & living areas

Remove about a third of the furniture to open the space
Clear family photos and personal collections
Open every blind and turn on every light for showings
Neutral throw pillows and one throw blanket — that’s it
Fix sticky doors, squeaky hinges and loose handles
Clean windows inside and out

03

Kitchen

Clear the counters except one styled item (a bowl of lemons works)
Organize the pantry and under-sink cabinet — buyers look
Degrease the range hood and clean the oven
Replace dated cabinet hardware if budget allows
Hide dish soap, sponges and the trash can

04

Primary suite

Crisp white or neutral bedding, pressed and layered
Matching lamps on both nightstands
Half-empty closets so storage looks generous
Remove exercise equipment and laundry baskets
Fresh, folded towels in the bath

05

Bathrooms

Re-caulk tubs and showers; scrub the grout
New white towels used only for showings
Clear every countertop and shower ledge
Replace the shower curtain and liner
Toilet lids down, always

06

Outdoor living

Clean the patio, grill and outdoor furniture
Trim shrubs away from the house and windows
Repair or stain fence boards that stand out
For acreage: mow paths, clear around outbuildings and mark corners
Stage one seating area so buyers can picture evenings outside

07

Photo day

Every light on, ceiling fans off
Cars out of the driveway and off the street in front
Pets, pet beds and bowls out of the house
Toilet seats down and shower curtains open
Leave the house for the shoot — it goes faster

Shayla’s tip

Don’t spend money on big remodels before you list. Fresh paint, a deep clean and clear counters return far more than a new kitchen. Ask me before you start any project — I’ll tell you honestly whether it pays off.

Free PDF

Take the checklist with you.

Get the printable staging checklist — plus a free walkthrough of your home if you’d like my eyes on it before photo day.

Staging FAQ

Staging checklist questions sellers ask

Do I need a professional stager, or is the staging checklist enough?

For most homes the staging checklist is enough: declutter, clean, fix the small things and use what you have. For vacant or luxury homes I can recommend a stager.

When should I start the staging checklist?

Two to three weeks before photos. Paint and repairs first, then the deep clean, then the photo-day items.

Does staging help a home sell for more?

The National Association of REALTORS® reports that most buyers’ agents say staging makes it easier for buyers to picture the home as theirs. Better photos mean more showings.

What should I skip?

Big remodels. Ask me before you start any project — I’ll tell you honestly whether it pays off.

Ready when you are

Want a second set of eyes?

I’ll walk your home with you, room by room, and tell you exactly what to do — and what to skip — before we list.

Book a pre-listing walkthrough Call (903) 452-2009