by Sherri Trevino

Created on: March 01, 2009

In today's market, selling your home is not an easy task. However, there are a lot of people who are still listing their homes for sale. Buyers today are looking for the best home and the best deal. They are very particular and will scrutinize your home for any imperfections. To be competitive in this market, you must prepare your home to be the best. You want to stand out and grab the Buyers attention. After all, the housing inventory is very high, and if your home is not one of the best, it will not sell.

When you list your home for sale, following the advice of your agent is crucial. Also, if you can afford to pay a professional to stage your home, you will reap the benefit. But aside from professional staging, here are some basic tips that will help you sell faster.

1) You must remove all of your clutter. Rent a storage unit if you have to, but get rid of the extra pieces of furniture that are in the way. Pack away all of the little knick knacks that have accumulated all over the house. Make your rooms more open and spacious. You need to create the illusion of space!

2) Pack away your personal items, such as family pictures, etc. A Buyer needs to be able to "see" your home as theirs. Your pictures will hinder the Buyer's imagination.

3) Repair all of the little things you have put off fixing. Fix that leaking faucet. Tighten the loose cabinet hardware. Oil the squeaking door hinges.

4) Make sure your paint is fresh and your carpets are clean. These are the very first things that a Buyer is looking at, and is the thing that they will complain about the most. Neutral colors are always best for your paint scheme. If you have bright or unusual colors, you are taking a gamble on the Buyer's tastes.

5) In the kitchen, clear all of your counter space. This gives an illusion of more cabinet space. So, put away as much stuff as you can. This will "open up" your space. Everybody wants a roomy kitchen.

6) Paint your front door! Clean your front porch or your stoop. Get rid of the spider webs. I know this sounds funny, but your front door is the first thing your Buyer sees. It can be the first impression they have of your home. As they are waiting to get inside, they are looking around. Make it a welcoming site.

7) Curb appeal is a must! Keep your yard litter free. Keep the grass cut and the hedges trimmed. Plant flowers if the season is right. This will attract Buyers.

8) When your home has a showing, make sure everything is well lit. Leave the lights on. Open the blinds and

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