First impressions are very important, the first thing a potential buyer will see is the outside. Lawns should be trimmed, leaves should be raked, and yard should be uncluttered.

Add seasonal flowers or greenery to porches and patio.

Make sure the house is clean and in good condition.

Make sure that all light bulbs are working, replace bulbs with the highest wattage bulb fixtures allow.

All lights should be turned on, and blinds, drapes or other window coverings should be opened to let in as much light as possible.

Keep the television off and play soft music instead.

Set the dining room table.

Place fresh flowers or fruit in the kitchen and/or dining room.

Remove all newspapers, magazines, and mail out of sight.

Make sure the fireplace is cleaned out, if it is a cold day, build a fire.

Take out all garbage and recycling.

Remove cat litter and other pet supplies.

Take your family pet to a friend's or neighbor's house.

Make sure the bathroom towels are fresh.

Use scented candles or fresh potpourri, bake cookies, or spray air freshener or light fragrance on screens (a fresh breeze will send a wonderful smell throughout the house)

Place valuables, money, fragile knick-knacks and prescriptions safely out of sight.

Be prepared to be at another location during the open house, if that is what your real estate agent suggests. Potential buyers may be uncomfortable discussing the home with the owners in it.

Prior to the open house, go through it with your realtor to ensure that everything is in order and that all valuables are safe. When it is over go through the house again to make sure everything is the way you left it.