You home is in competition with many others when it comes to selling so getting it in top shape is critical to the outcome. First impressions are very important!

#1. Be objective, make sure you have not over priced for the market conditions & go over your home inside & out with that objective eye to check for repairs, clutter, dirt etc.

#2. Clean & declutter outside! keep the front door & walk ways clear & clean, paint the front door, bu a new welcome mat; to the buyer; the front door indicates what shape the rest of the home is in, add a few colorful plants, keep the lawn watered & trimmed, weeds pulled, leaves raked. Repair anything that needs it Check for peeling paint, foundation cracks & loose shingles. Replace burnt out light bulbs, wash/repair light fixtures, wash siding, windows. Often potential buyers will do a 'drive-by' first to see if they want to view the inside. Good curb appeal is the first impression so make it a great one!

#3.Clean & declutter inside! remove all clutter from every room including closets. Put away all family knicknacks, stuffed animals, collections, remove anything that may distract the potential buyer, even get rid of too much furniture. Remove all magnets etc. from fridge, remove dish towels from fridge/stove handles. Get rid of everything that you haven't seen or used in a year, have a garage sale, organize basement, garage & attic. Wash all windows & walls, paint if necessary with a neutral tone to appeal to a wider range of buyers. Clean or replace old worn carpets. clean all light fixtures, ceiling fans, make necessary repairs to plumbing.(fix that leaky faucet) heating & electrical systems. Replace old, worn shower curtains & bathmats. Kitchens & bathrooms must be squeaky clean! Consider hiring a professional cleaning service for the initial clean & then keep it clean & fresh smelling at all times!

#4.When it is time for your home to be shown, always make sure there is no old food or dirty dishes left out on counters & avoid cooking smelly foods such as fish or cabbage. Fill your home with inviting smells such as hot bread, cookies or consider boiling cinnamon before the showing. You don't have to be a baker to get these smells, there are lots of frozen & bake products at your grocery store. Turn on selected lights in each room before the Realtor brings the potential buyer, open blinds/curtains, add fresh flowers, make sure the pets are contained. Refresh liter boxes & put away. Make sure the bathrooms & kitchen sparkle, do that last minute touch up clean before you leave and ...oh yes...if at all possible, you should leave during the showing, you don't want to make the potential buyer feel uncomfortable during the showing or limit their conversation with their Realtor.

#5. If all of the above isn't doing the trick to get your home sold, consider hiring a Professional Stager to help you out. Your Realtor can always recommend a good one. It will be worth it in the end.