Remove personal items.

As nice as your home probably is, the fact remains that if there are too many personal items and striking decorative choices, it becomes more difficult for a potential buyer to envision the home as their own. In very few cases will a buyer happen to have interests and decorative taste similar to your own, so it is a good idea to remove personal photographs, clear the home of knick-knacks, collectibles, other personal items and have the home's interior painted neutral colors.

Give the buyer space to work with.

While it is important to have furnishings throughout a home, it is also important to remove any clutter and extra f furniture so that the buyer has a good idea of the space your house offers and is able to visualize his or her own furniture arrangement. Removing extra decorative items, furniture and other items will give your home an open and spacious feel.

Offer a "clean slate" to make it easy for the buyer.

Given the choice between having a list of things to clean & repair and having none, the decision is obvious. Make it easy for the buyer to choose your house by making needed repairs and cleaning from top to bottom. Carpets and floors should be cleaned throughout the home as well as walls, windows, curtains and light fixtures. Any damaged or rotted wood trim should be replaced and any non-working light switches and outlets need to be replaced or repaired.

When you take the initiative and give the buyer a "clean slate" it could mean the difference between your house being chosen over the one down the street, and ultimately, a faster and more profitable sale.