General

Fluff couch cushions and pillows

Remove clutter from shelves, mantels and tables, leaving only a few decorative items on display

Replace all non-working light bulbs

Make sure the home has received a basic cleaning: clean floors, dust (and polish) furniture, and so on; remarkably, dust can be a real eyesore in photographs-it catches the light quite well

Straighten books on bookshelves, and minimize knickknacks

Hide wires that belong to speakers, computers, or other electronics

Straighten hanging picture frames and remove personal photographs if possible

Don’t cover tables and stands with tablecloths, but leave accent runners

Make sure the fireplace is clean of ashes

Remove pet bowls, toys and beds

If possible, add some flowers to the décor

Kitchen

Clear and clean counter tops and stove, save for attractive soap pumps or the olive oil bottle and the like

If any of the cabinets have see-through glass doors, minimize the amount of dishes that are in it, and make sure that everything stacks nice and neatly. Avoid bagged food items.

Make sure that all hand towels are clean and hang straight

Clear the fridge and all other areas/appliances from photos, flyers, magnets, drawings, etc.

If there is more than one clock in view from any one angle, make sure the clocks are set to the same time

If possible, add some flowers to the décor

Bathrooms

Clean mirrors and clear countertops

Remove shampoo bottles, wet washcloths, etc.

Make sure that all towels are clean and hang straight

Free the bathtub and shower stall of water stains, as well as all faucets

Make sure that all toilet lids are down, and all toilet paper rolls are full

Make sure that all rugs are clean

If possible, add some flowers to the décor

Clean or remove trashcans

Bedrooms

Make beds with crisp, clean linens that match the décor, and smooth out any wrinkles and fluff pillows

Make sure all valuables are out of sight

Remove any clothing and shoes from view

Remove personal pictures and knickknacks, straighten out books, and leave only hardcover books on nightstands

Exterior

Give porches, patios and decks a good sweep and hose down

Straighten patio furniture and open umbrellas

Remove all trashcans

Clear the yard of gardening tools, toys, etc.

Coil or remove all garden hoses

Remove dead flowers from flowering bushes

Ideally have a gardening crew come the day before clear the yard of dead leaves, weeds, etc.

If at all possible, remove unflattering window screens

If the house is of a light color and has a grey layer of dust, give it a gentle hosing down