Dress to Impress (Your Home That Is)

No matter how are you try you cannot get another first impression. With these ten easy tips you can make the most of your first impression. You already take steps to get perspective buyers in the door with curb appeal but if your house is disorganized, dirty, or poorly laid out then they won't stay. 

• Tour model homes in new neighborhoods to see how other people stage homes in a tasteful way. This will help to not overwhelm perspective buyers.
• Make your home mysterious. You want future buyers to see the home as theirs, not someone elses. Try to take down family pictures and children's artwork. Leave the house as open to new people so they can picture it as they want it.
• Rearrange your furniture. If you plan on ditching any furniture before you move, do it before you put it on the market. If you just have to much furniture move it into the basement, or storage while your home is on the market. By relieving cluter you home seems bigger and more open.
• De-clutter! You want potential buyers to see your house not your stuff. A few candels here and a couple landscape pictures there are okay but no need to have knick-knacks, trophies, books, and movies everywhere.
• Make it smell NICE! By making your home smell unique- in a good way that is :-) - you can create a lasting impression in the buyers mind. Try avoid cooking fish, liver, garlic, onions, or anything fried or spicy before your showings. But do try baking a frozen loaf of bread, cookies, or pie- you nose will appreciate it. If you want to light a candle avoid floral scents and try to stick with vanilla or cinnamon (maybe apple pie spiced).
• Place your house in the Best Light. If drapes, curtains, or blinds block beautiful views leave them open for showings and pictures. Natural light is always best, it makes your home seem birght and cheery. For an evening showing (or one on a cloudy day) turn lights on for a warm glow.
• Don't forget the details. Only  keep out linens that are unstained. In the bathroom, place guest towels out (someone will probably need to use the facilities during the showing). Make sure throw rugs and carpets are also in good condition, if not completely necessary just remove them. Remove tattered and worn bedspreads, also. (Beds should ALWAYS be made)
• Bring in flowers and plants. A couple of potted plants can do a lot for a house. If its early in the season purchase mature plants verses starting from scratch. Just a bouquet of flowers can brighten any room that maybe lacking.
• Pay attention to applicances! This is doublely important if they come with the home. All applicances should be cleaned and grease-free.
• De-emphasize pets. Not all buyers want to know that you have pets. If you do have pets keep their cages, dishes, and litter boxes clean at all times. Pet hair should be frequently vacuumed. Yards should also be cleaned before every showing. Always cage or kennel your pets during showings.