Get rid of clutter. Throw out or file stacks of newspapers and magazines. Pack away most of your small decorative items. Store out-of-season clothing to make closets seem roomier. Clean out the garage and storage shed.
Wash those windows. Break out the windex and wash your windows and screens. It will help bring more light into the interior.
Keep everything extra clean. Wash fingerprints from light switch plates, kitchen cabinets, and door trim. Mop and wax floors. Clean the stove and refrigerator. A clean house makes a better first impression.
Get rid of smells. Clean carpeting and drapes to eliminate cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. Open the windows.
Lighten it up. Put higher wattage bulbs in light sockets to make rooms seem brighter, especially basements and other dark rooms. Replace any burnt-out bulbs.
Make minor repairs. Small problems, such as sticky doors, torn screens, cracked caulking, or a dripping faucet, may seem trivial, but they can create a bad impression. First impressions are the most important.
Tidy up your yard. Cut the grass, rake the leaves, trim the bushes, and edge the walks. Put a pot or two of bright flowers near the entryway.
Polish it up. Polish your front doorknob and door numbers. Again, first impressions are the most important.
