• First impressions are lasting. The view from the street has an impact on the buyer's reaction to the whole house. The addition of seasonal flowers works wonders. Keep the lawn trimmed and edged. Be sure snow and ice are removed. Remember the importance of exterior paint and the front door appearance.
• Jazz it up inside. Faded walls and worn or soiled carpeting reduce appeal. Most buyers are attracted to homes offering "move-in" condition and neutral colors and they often overestimate the cost of handling decor changes themselves.
• Can you see the light? Keep your home looking cheerful. Dark rooms feel dreary so keep the draperies open to let the sun shine in through sparkling windows. Provide a feeling of glowing warmth by turning on all the lights (closets, too) for an evening showing.
• Fix that faucet! Dripping water discolors sinks and suggests faulty plumbing. Also, attend to loose knobs or hand rails, sticking doors or warped drawers which can detract from your home's value.
• Make closets look bigger Neat, well-ordered closets suggest room to spare. Can you move extra items to another location?

From top to bottom. Display the full size of your basement, garage and storage areas by removing all unnecessary articles. Brighten dull, dark basements by painting the walls.