There’s a reason why kitchens are often called the “heart of the home”—they’re one of the most important rooms for buyers. A clean, organized kitchen not only photographs well but also helps potential buyers imagine themselves preparing meals and spending time in the space. But there’s a fine line between a warm, welcoming kitchen and one that looks overcrowded or chaotic.
In this post, we’ll show you how to stage your kitchen to perfection. We’ll break down how to clear those countertops, tidy up appliances, and make sure every surface sparkles for the camera.
The Kitchen Prep Checklist
- Clear the Counters This is the golden rule of kitchen prep: less is more. Countertops should be as clear as possible. This means removing toasters, blenders, spice racks, and anything else that clutters the space. You can leave a few carefully placed items, like a stylish fruit bowl or a decorative plant, but keep it minimal. Clean, open surfaces create the illusion of a bigger, more functional kitchen.
- Clean Appliances Thoroughly Your oven, stove, and refrigerator should be gleaming. Wipe down stainless steel appliances to remove fingerprints, smudges, or streaks. If you’ve got a microwave or coffee maker on the counter, make sure they’re spotless too. Buyers will notice if your appliances look grimy, so a quick wipe-down can go a long way.
- Make the Sink Sparkle First things first—no dirty dishes. The sink should be completely clear, with no soap dispensers, sponges, or drying racks in sight. A clean, empty sink makes the kitchen look polished and ready for action.
- Organize the Cabinets and Fridge (Just in Case) You might think buyers won’t peek inside your cabinets or fridge, but some definitely will. Keep things organized and neat in case they open a door during a showing. An overstuffed fridge or cluttered pantry can give the impression of a kitchen that lacks storage space.
- Brighten the Space with Good Lighting Like the rest of the house, lighting in the kitchen is key. Make sure all the bulbs are working and that overhead lights and under-cabinet lighting are on for the shoot. A well-lit kitchen looks cleaner, more spacious, and more inviting.
Real-World Example: The Power of a Clean Countertop
We once worked with a family who loved their kitchen gadgets. From air fryers to coffee machines, every inch of their counters was covered. While this setup might work for daily life, it didn’t exactly scream “dream kitchen” in photos. After clearing the countertops and giving everything a good polish, the kitchen looked twice as large. The house sold within a week, and the feedback we received from buyers was that the kitchen was a huge selling point. Coincidence? We think not.
Activity: Kitchen Clear-Out Challenge
Pick one countertop in your kitchen (yes, just one) and completely clear it off. Remove everything—gadgets, appliances, décor. Now, take a look at how much space you’ve gained. Could this setup work for a photo shoot? What’s one item you might add back to give the space personality without cluttering it?
Discussion Question: Why Do Buyers Love Minimalist Kitchens?
There’s something about a clean, open kitchen that makes buyers fall in love. Why do you think that is? Discuss how minimalist kitchens create a sense of possibility and how this impacts a buyer’s impression of the home.
