Property Prep Guide for Virtual Tours & Photography
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A professional photo shoot or virtual tour is one of the most valuable marketing investments for your property, but only if the space looks the part. Clean spaces, consistent lighting, and attention to detail turn good visuals into great ones. Use this checklist to help your onsite team prepare your community for a flawless shoot day.
Questions about something on this prep guide? Reach out to ContentStudio@R3D-Studios.com
General Preparation
- Perform a complete cleaning of all rooms, including windows, mirrors, flooring, and fixtures
- Remove all clutter such as papers, cords, personal items, or cleaning supplies.
- Verify all light bulbs match in color temperature (3000–3500K warm white recommended)
- Inspect lighting fixtures to confirm full functionality before the shoot.
- Maximize natural light by opening blinds and curtains uniformly.
- Turn off ceiling fans during capture to prevent motion blur in photos and stitching artifacts in virtual tours.
Leasing Office and Amenity Areas
- Ensure all visible surfaces are clean and organized.
- Remove non-branded signage, loose papers, and temporary décor.
- Stage furniture in practical arrangements that reflect traffic flow.
- Turn on all lighting and ensure screens display branded media or community imagery.
- Inspect fitness centers for cleanliness; align weights, secure cords, and check for consistent lighting.
- Confirm pool areas, clubrooms, and co-working spaces are operational, staged, and free of maintenance equipment.
Model Units
- Make all beds neatly with wrinkle-free bedding and coordinated pillows.
- Hide extension cords, chargers, and routers.
- Remove trash bins and personal items.
- Stage lightly with a few lifestyle accents: folded towels, a tray on the bed, or minimal countertop items.
- Kitchen: clear surfaces except for select decorative pieces (e.g., fruit bowl, coffee maker).
- Bathroom: use fresh towels and remove all personal products.
- Balcony or patio: ensure furniture is clean and positioned evenly; glass doors should be spotless.
Exteriors and Community Grounds
- Complete all landscaping prior to the shoot. Mow lawns, trim hedges, and remove debris.
- Clean sidewalks, curbs, and pool decks; pressure wash if necessary.
- Remove trash bins, maintenance carts, and signage not intended for marketing.
- Verify exterior lighting is operational for twilight or dusk sessions.
- Keep front parking spaces clear of vehicles when possible to ensure unobstructed building views.
Hallways and Common Areas
- Replace burned-out bulbs and ensure uniform lighting.
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Clean walls, doors, and baseboards to remove scuffs or fingerprints.
- Keep doors either all open or all closed for visual consistency.
- Confirm that directional and safety signage is in good condition and properly positioned.
Timing and Access Coordination
- Schedule shoots during mid-morning to early afternoon for optimal daylight.
- Reserve amenity spaces to prevent resident interference.
- Notify onsite staff and residents of the shoot schedule at least 48 hours in advance.
- Assign an onsite contact to provide access, manage lighting adjustments, and coordinate room entry.
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Establish an alternate weather date for exterior sessions.
Virtual Tour–Specific Guidelines
- Conduct a complete walkthrough before capture to confirm all areas are ready.
- Verify all doors open freely and remain stationary
- Turn off air conditioning if moving air disturbs blinds or light fixtures.
- Hide apartment numbers or signage to maintain resident privacy.