Showing Your Home More Effectively - 8 Tips

1. Make Yourself Scarce! - Let the agent sell your home. If you are not there, the prospects can talk openly with the agent, who is well-versed in handling objections and calming nerves.

2. Remove Pets - Your pets should not be seen or heard while prospects are viewing your house.

3. Let There Be Light! - Turn on all lights, overheads and lamps. Make sure you have replaced all burned out bulbs. Open all curtains and window shades to provide a cheerful atmosphere.

4. Silence Rules - Turn off all television sets, radios and stereos. If you have window air conditioners on, make sure they are on low so that the noise is not distracting. (Soft easy listening or classical music is okay.)

5. Keep It Clean - Your house must be clean and tidy at all times. All beds must be made, all dishes in the dishwasher or covered up in the sink with a towel. All wood surfaces should be dusted, all floors swept and mopped. Carpets must be clean. Fingerprints need to be removed from the walls. Paint inside, if necessary. Your kitchen and bathrooms, especially, need to sparkle.

6. Make It Neat - All closets should be clean and neat. Excess clothing, shoes, linens or toiletries should be packed away. If your furniture is large or excessive for the size of your house, you should consider putting some of it in storage. Garages, storage areas, tool houses and attics should also be straightened up. Pick up all children's and pets' toys and put them away. Clutter will make your house look smaller.

7. Create Curb Appeal - The outside of your house needs to be as appealing as the inside. Touch up the paint where needed, make minor repairs. Keep the landscaping trimmed and neat. Remove any toys or tools.

8. Little Things Mean A Lot - Consider adding mirrors to walls to give the impression of more light and space. Make sure all appliances and plumbing are in good working order. Remove any personalized items (like door knockers) and any light fixtures that will not be sold with the home.