A Weekend Well-Spent: The Photo Tour That Could Save You Thousands

A home inventory sounds like one of those “eventually” projects—but it doesn’t have to be complicated. With a smartphone and a solid plan, anyone can complete a comprehensive inventory in a weekend. Great for insurance purposes, estate planning, downsizing, or simply knowing what’s where.

This method is fast, visual, and doesn’t require spreadsheets, clipboards, or coffee-fueled all-nighters.

📸 Step 1: Big Picture First

Start with a panoramic photo from the doorway of each room. Then snap clear photos of all four walls, the floor, and the ceiling. Ceiling fans, crown molding, vent placements, rugs, or even potential damage—get it all.

Phone tip: Turn on gridlines for straighter photos. Skip the zoom—just walk closer when needed.

Step 2: Open Everything

Cabinets, closets, junk drawers, garages. If it holds something worth remembering or replacing, document it—no need to stage.

Step 3: Zoom In on Valuables

Photograph anything with financial or sentimental value:

• Jewelry, watches, heirlooms

• Artwork, instruments, designer pieces

• Electronics, appliances, and tech

• Tools, bikes, sports gear

Take clear, close-up shots from different angles. Capture labels, serial numbers, engravings, and condition details.

Step 4: Don’t Forget the Structure

Your home is an asset too. Photograph:

• All sides of the house exterior

• Roof (safely—through windows or drone if available)

• Garage, shed, patio, fences, HVAC units, and electrical panels

These can be vital for insurance claims or property records.

🗂️ Final Step: Store It Safely

Put the photos somewhere secure. Use a cloud backup, an external drive, or a secure digital tool like Pinventory, where everything can be labeled, organized, and easily accessed when needed.

A weekend well spent—protecting what matters, one photo at a time.