First of all it is important to clear all clutter. Get rid of anything you don’t need a take it to the Salvation Army. You should also get rid of all the junk in your yard. Coil up your hoses and make sure any kid’s toys and gardening tools are put away. Do not leave a cluster of bicycles tied up to your porch.
It also helps to get rid of any dead trees or bushes on the property. Spruce up the front door by painting it and adding brand new house numbers and a brand new mailbox. Sunken pavement stones are also a big no-no. Replace them with evenly placed stones.
Studies show that people associate dirty or cluttered looking places with vermin or bugs. Make sure everything is spic and span and clean up every kitchen and table counter. Make sure every surface gleams.
Do not leave baby stuff around as studies have also shown that homes that have kid’s stuff strewn about are less likely to sell. Get rid of baby gates, inflatable pools in the backyard and crayon drawings on the wall.
Get rid of all the ashtrays and hide them. People consider houses that have ashtrays in them to be of lower value, mainly because they smell. The same thing goes for litter boxes and objects associated with pets.
If your home looks dated you can spruce it up by painting the walls contemporary colors. You can also go to the trouble of replacing some fixtures. Even small changes like changing the light switch plates can make a house look homier.
Another trick is to change the faucets and spouts. This makes a home look more glamorous and up-to-date. Add a tall spigot on the sink to make it look Italian and modern.
Flowers and displays like bowls of fruit can also give the home a sense of sophistication. For additional beautiful smells, many real estate agents advise baking cookies in the oven just before a viewing to leave a positive impression on visitors.