1. Everything should be given a thorough cleaning, including windows and floor tiles.

2. Clear away all clutter. This is not “real life” anymore, you are setting a stage. Pack up and store anything that is not essential. When moving day comes you’ll be ahead of the game.

3. A fresh coat of paint will do wonders. Choose a warm off white. Remember, think neutral for greater appeal.

4. A buyer must feel invited into your home. Pay careful attention to the entry. Details like flowering plants, polished hardware or a new welcome mat draws a buyer inside.

5. Indoors and out, get rid of plants that are overgrown or unsightly. Replace them with new ones or fresh flowers. This adds life into your home.

6. Pay attention as well to subliminal details; soft music, adequate lighting and pleasant scents are essential.

7. Pick a color scheme, perhaps something you already own and use the two or three colors throughout your home to create harmony.

8. Now that you have cleared away anything shabby or unnecessary take your favorite objects and arrange them in a pleasing manner, on shelves, mantles or tables.

9. It may be necessary to purchase a few accessories to emphasize this color scheme and freshen things up a bit. For example: decorative cushions, small rugs, colorful towels, prints or curtains. Remember you can take these when you move.

10. And finally, remember that the best staging job in the world will not take the place of a reasonable asking price. Look to the professional advice of your real estate agent.
 

Information provided by Arturo Garcia - Lakeside Homes Real Estate

Even with the wealth of home buying information available on the Internet, it's a good idea to have an agent. The fees you'll pay an agent are nominal when you consider what all an agent can do for you.

Buying a home is a monumental event that can affect you for years to come -- an agent can help you make sure it's a positive event. Among other things, a good agent will act as your home-buying expert, tour guide, negotiator, paperwork administrator, and, most importantly, your trusted advisor.

Additional Benefits of Having an Agent

* They can help you understand the different financing options available to you.

* They can likely refer you to a lender who can help pre-qualify you for a loan.

* They almost always have access to the Multiple Listing System (MLS), an electronic listing of homes for sale by other agents.

* They may know of homes for sale in the area that are not yet being marketed.

* They can help you stay on track throughout the buying process, with the many appointments and events the process brings.

* They will handle all the home-buying paperwork ... and there's a lot of paperwork.

* They can help you negotiate with sellers.

* They can help you determine the realistic value of homes based on recent sales in the area.

How to Find an Agent?

Seek referrals from friends who have bought homes in the area. Look on the Internet. Look in the "Homes" or "Real Estate" section of your local newspaper.

The ideal agent knows the local area well. And most importantly, he or she listens well and respects your needs and limitations. Trust your instincts. If an agent makes you uncomfortable for any reason, find another one.