Let your home smile a welcome to buyers

1. First impressions are lasting. The front door greets the prospect. Make sure it is fresh, clean, and scrubbed looking. Keep the lawn trimmed and edged, and the yard free of refuse.

2. Decorate for a quick sale. Faded walls and worn woodwork reduce appeal. Why try to tell the prospect how your home could look when you can show them by redecorating? A quicker sale at a higher price will result. An investment in new kitchen wallpaper will pay dividends.

3. Let the sun shine in. Open draperies and curtains and let the prospect see how cheerful your home can be. (Dark rooms do not appeal).

4. Fix that faucet! Dripping water discolors sinks and suggests faulty plumbing. Be sure the kitchen sink is free of dishes.

5. Repairs can make a big difference. Loose knobs, sticking doors and windows, warped cabinet drawers and other minor flaws detract from home value. Have them fixed.

6. From top to bottom. Display the full value of your attic and other utility space by removing all unnecessary articles.

7. Safety first. Keep stairways clear. Avoid cluttered appearances and possible injuries.

8. Make closets look bigger. Neat, well ordered closets show that space is ample.

9. Bathrooms help sell homes. Check and repair caulking in bathtubs and showers. Make this room sparkle.

10. Arrange bedrooms neatly. Remove excess furniture. Use attractive bed spreads and freshly laundered curtains.

11. Can you see the light? Illumination is like a welcome sign. The potential buyer will feel a glowing warmth when you turn on all your lights for an evening showing.

12. Three's a crowd. Avoid having too many people present during inspections. The potential buyer will feel like an intruder and will hurry through the house.

13. Music is mellow. But not when showing a house. Turn off the blaring radio or television. Let the agent and buyer talk free of disturbances.

14. Pets underfoot? Keep them out of the way, preferablyout of the house.

15. A word to the wise. Let your agent discuss price, terms, possession and other factors with the customer. He or she is eminently qualified to bring negotiations to a favorable conclusion.

16. Use your Agent! Show your home only by appointment through your agent. Your cooperation will be appreciated and will help close the sale more quickly!

Remember- you don't get a second chance to make a good first impression. Don't let dirt and clutter obscure the good points!