1. Tidy up the grounds, porches, and garage. Keep your lawn trimmed and edged. Make sure that your yard is clean of refuse. First impressions are lasting impressions.

2. Your front door gives a vital first impression when a Realtor and prospective purchaser approach your home. Be sure it is scrubbed clean or painted if necessary.

3. Dress up windows with freshly laundered curtains.

4. If any decorating is needed (especially in the kitchen) do it now! $100 worth of paint may balance a $500 price reduction. Bathrooms also help sell homes. Make this room sparkle.

5. Keep all steps clear of hazards. The entire house should be tidy and uncluttered.

6. Don't forget to put light bulbs in all sockets. Illumination is like a welcome sign. The potential buyers will feel a glowing warmth when you turn on all your lights for an evening inspection.

7. Wash dishes, put away clothes, straighten up newspapers, magazines, ect.

8. Make up beds with attractive spreads.

9. Keep pets out of the way when showing your home. One type of prospective buyer can be annoyed, and another's attention can be diverted.

10. Avoid having anyone home during showings. The potential buyer will feel like an intruder and will hurry through the house rather than experiencing what it would feel like to have their family live there.

11. Leave showing your home to a salesperson. It is his/her business to sell; He/she can work with differing reactions alone better than with running conversation. The sales person knows the buyer's requirements and can best emphasize the features and benefits of your home.

12. Don't discuss anything concerning the sale with the customer. Let the Realtor discuss price, terms, posession, and other factors with the consumer. He/she is eminently qualified to bring negotiations to a favorable conclusion.

13. Never try to sell furniture or other personal property to a customer before the deal is complete.