Your home has just one chance to make a great impression with each potential buyer. And it can! The following "tricks of the trade" will help you keep track of what needs to be done. The whole idea is to present a clean, spacious clutter-free home--the kind of place you'd like to buy. Accomplish a little everyday, and before long your home will be ready to make the impression that can make the sale.

• Keep your grass cut at a height of 3" for a full lawn look
  
• Trim shrubs
  
• Edge gardens and walkways
  
• Weed and mulch
  
• Sweep walkways and driveway, remove branches, litter or toys
  
• Add color and fill in bare spots with plantings
  
• Remove mildew or moss from walls or walkways with bleach and water or other cleaner
  
• Stack woodpile neatly
  
• Take stains off your driveway with cleanser or kitty litter
  
• Clean and repair patio and deck area
  
• Remove any outdoor furniture which is not in good repair
  
• Make sure pool or spa sparkles
  
• Replace  or paint old storm doors

• Add a fresh coat of interior paint in light neutral colors
  
• Shampoo carpeting, replace if necessary
  
• Clean and wax hardwood floors, refinish if necessary
  
• Clean and wash kitchen and bathroom floors
  
• Wash all windows, vacuum blinds, wash window sills
  
• Have your fireplace inspected and cleaned
  
• Clean out and organize closets, add extra space by packing clothes and items you won't need again until after you've moved
  
• Remove extra furniture, worn rugs, and items you don't use; keep papers, toys, etc. picked up--especially on stairways
  
• Repair problems such as loose door knobs, cracked molding, leaking taps and toilets, squeaky doors, closets or screen doors which are off their tracks
  
• Add dishes of potpourri, or drop of vanilla or bath oil on light bulbs for scent
  
• Secure jewelry, cash and other valuables