How to Get Your House in a Movie

If you’ve ever dreamed of Ryan Reynolds or Cole Sprouse chilling on your front porch, you’re in luck: Hollywood North wants you(r house). But before you reupholster the couch, there are a few things you should know—and Karin Watson, Creative BC’s director of business operations, gave us the scoop. 

You have to register

Location scouts usually don’t just wander the streets of Kits hoping to find the next great home star. You’ll want to list your house on Creative BC’s database. “Photo quality is really important,” said Watson. “You want high-quality pictures that represent all assets of your property, including those that are unique.” She suggests including interesting design elements, amazing views, pools and whatever else makes your place special.

Don’t expect an all-access pass

If you’re imagining sharing jokes with Seth Rogen in between shoots of Neighbors 3, don’t. You probably won’t be allowed on your property during the shoot. The location manager should arrange alternate accommodations and cover your basic living expenses for the duration of the shoot.

There is no going rate

“There is no fixed rate, as all projects are quite unique and also have their own budgets to manage,” said Watson. There are tons of factors that can impact pay, including the length of the shoot, what they’re going to be using it for and whether or not it will be a “recurring location.” Rates can be anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 a day, but a good daily estimate is the amount of your monthly mortgage.

Treat a location agreement like a business agreement

This is the time to scan the fine print: your location agreement will outline how everything should go down. “When a location scout approaches you to use your property and you have questions or concerns, they are ready and prepared to address those concerns,” said Watson. The agreement should be tailored to your house, and it’s your right to contribute. Make sure to include details like what alterations the crew is allowed to make, how they should store items not being used and what special effects they can use. They should cover all damage costs that occur during the shoot and take out liability insurance for all activities on your property—get proof of that in writing.

Have a little faith

This isn’t a bunch of rowdy college students invading your home—these are industry professionals. “Their reputation is tied to how they treat the locations in which they work,” said Watson. The production team will take “before” pictures for reference so they can put everything back to normal before you come home. (And if those hardwood floors get scratched in the process, you’d better believe they’ve got insurance to cover it.) Yes, dot your Is and cross your Ts in the contract, but then sit back and enjoy your hotel staycation.