1. Hire a cleaning service. A spotlessly clean home is
essential; dirt will turn off a prospect faster than anything.

2. Mow your lawn, and be sure toys and yard equipment
are put away.

3. Serve cookies, coffee, and soft drinks. It creates a
welcoming touch. But be sure the kitchen has been
cleaned up; use disposable cups so the sink doesn’t
fill up.

4. Lock up your valuables, jewelry, and money. Although
the real estate salesperson will be on site during the open
house, it’s impossible to watch everyone all the time.

5. Turn on all the lights. Even in the daytime,
incandescent lights add sparkle.

6. Send your pets to a neighbor or take them outside. If
that’s not possible, crate them or confine them to one
room (a basement or bath), and let the salesperson know
where to find them.

7. Leave. It’s awkward for prospective buyers to look in
your closets and express their opinions of your home with
you there.

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