1. Spruce up all the way around the house. Keep lawn and shrubbery trimmed and free of bicycles and toys.

2. Weed the garden beds and remove garden hoses, lawn tools, dog houses and toys from the yard.

3. Place a flowering pot on the front step and keep it watered.

4. Buy a new doormat.

5. Clean all outdoor furniture and remove rust from any metal furniture.

6. Clean and straighten gutters.

7. Repair and paint or stain the fence.

8. Repair broken windows and shutters.

9. Keep windows clean and lights on to make the interior visible.

10. Make sure doorbell works properly. Tighten loose doorknobs and oil squeaking hinges.

11. A bright colored umbrella on the deck is inviting.

12. Hold a garage sale to ensure all storage areas, closets, basement and garage are uncluttered and spacious.

13. Clean everything in and out of sight.

14. Clean carpets, wash and/or wax floors.

15. Clean walls.

16. Clean blinds and window coverings.

17. Open window coverings to bring in light.

18.If you have furniture that makes a crowded impression, consider storing some pieces.

19.Place remaining furniture to create an easy traffic flow from room to room.

20.Scale down your art collection, posters, signs and family photos, especially in teenager’s rooms.

21. Keep the kitchen counter tops clean and clear of clutter, and add plants for color.

22. Keep sink shining and free of dirty dishes at all times.

23. Repair any chips in the porcelain sink.

24. Clean the refrigerator.

25. Remove items (magnets, and other clutter) from the front of the refrigerator.

26. Completely clean the oven.

27. Organize all of the cupboards to show spaciousness.

28. Remove debris, dust, flies, moths etc., from all light fixtures.

29. Keep bathrooms scrubbed, tidy and equipped with fresh soap, and neatly hung clean towels.

30. Remove stain in the sinks and install new washers on dripping faucets.

31. If you repaint, stay with neutral tones.

32. Accent rooms with splashes of color with throw pillows, crockery, pictures, flowers or folded quilts.

33. Place plants in strategic spots in any room where space permits.

34. Keep stairways clear and clean.

35. Place photos of your family enjoying the home in  a few different places.

36. Make sure the entry level floor makes a superior first impression.

37. Clean the closets nearest the front entryway to make it appear spacious with empty hangers.

38. If you have a fireplace, try adding some color with flowers on the mantle, and if the weather is cool, a fire going provides a warm homey feeling.

39. Increase the wattage of the light bulbs in the basement and laundry room.

40. Avoid eccentricities such as beads in the doorways, dark walls, mirrored ceilings, etc. The house must appeal to the masses.

41. If you have too much “stuff”, rent a storage unit and put all the extras in it.

42. Fresh flowers in the rooms give a feeling of life in the home.

43. Set a scene such as a chess game in the corner of the family room or the dining room table set for dinner.

44. Eliminate bad odors, use potpourri, carpet fresheners.

45. Place cedar chips in the closets.

46. Linen closet should have neatly folded linens and a fresh scent. Try placing a couple of fabric softener sheets inside.

47. The kitchen will smell fragrant with cinnamon warming in the oven or a drop of vanilla on a small cookie sheet. Remember to do this about and hour before the showing and turn off the oven before you leave the home

48. Board pets or take them with you during showings. Buyers need to move freely about the property and view the garage.

49. Do not leave valuables, mail, bank statements, other offers on your home, or other personal information out in the open.