• Curb appeal is the first impression of your house. Keeping the grass cut and the area tidy will help make a great first impression.
• Paint or wash the exterior of the house (including window casings, shutters, and doors).
• Wash the windows inside and out.
• Check the gutters and chimney.

Touch up the interior.

• Put a fresh coat of paint in the most used areas of the home. This will clean as well as brighten up the rooms.
• Wash the walls where paint is not appropriate (i.e. wall paper, paneling).
• Wash all floors and bathroom tiles.
• Shampoo dirty carpets.
• Get rid of clutter. Clean out your closets, garage, basement and attic. Use self storage if necessary.
• Replacing air filters will help keep the dust down.

Replace bathroom and kitchen fixtures that are worn or leaking.

• People will notice a leaking or worn-out faucet. By replacing these items, you will give a new look to the room.
• Clean under the sinks. If there is any leaks fix them. Then clean up the damage using contact paper or paint.

Get rid of any bad smells in your home.

• Pay attention to pet or cigarette odors.
• Place scented potpourri around the house, but be sensible of too strong of a scent.
• On the day you're expecting a potential buyer, pop a batch of frozen cinnamon rolls or home-made bread into the oven for a great aroma or light scented candles during the visit of the buyer.

Open Windows and/or turn on lights in hallways and rooms.

• Show a bright and pleasant interior.
• Don't expect buyers and their representatives to be fumbling for light switches.  It also reduces potential accidents.

Restrain your pets.

• Not everyone loves pets, especially dogs.  Visitors may be allergic to pet dander or simply may not appreciate having to pass inspection by Fifi first before entering your home.
• In addition, a barking dog will be disruptive as you are greeting prospective home buyers and/or try to answer questions.