The exterior of your home forms the first impression a prospective buyer will have. Stand in front of your house and view it as though you were the buyer. Then, ask yourself the following questions:

• Is the yard mowed, weeded, trimmed and watered?
• Does the structure need painting or washing?
• Is there a new welcome mat on the front porch?
• Can I read the house number clearly?
• Are the windows clean—inside and out?
• Are there damaged windows or missing screens?
• Are there extra vehicles in the driveway?
• Are fences and gates in good condition?
• Are the rain gutters and roof in good condition?

Your house may satisfy the practical requirements a potential buyer is looking for–location, price, style and amenities – but does it inspire an emotional connection? Here’s how to let prospective buyers imagine themselves living in your home:

• Create a clean, organized entry
• Remove clutter such as stray newspapers and magazines
• Clean all light fixtures and replace dull lightbulbs
• Repair wall and ceiling cracks
• Paint walls a neutral color (white never fails!)
• Scrub, wax or seal floors
• Make sure carpeting is clean
• Rearrange furniture in living room and family rooms to create more open space

Prospective buyers tend to focus on two key areas: the kitchen and the bathroom. Attention to details in these rooms can make a big difference:

• Place a bowl of fresh fruit in the kitchen
• Put seldom-used small appliances in cupboards
• Inspect cabinets and clear countertops of clutter
• Clean all mirrors and objects left on countertops
• Fix leaky faucets and caulk sinks and tubs
• Be sure to have coffee, tea and treats for guests
• Place soaps, bath oils and thick towels in bathrooms
• Scrub and polish all sinks and tubs
• Purchase new shower curtains and rugs
• Repair missing grout and tiles
• Deodorize garbage disposer, dishwasher and trash cans

Once you’ve reviewed the kitchen and bathroom areas, walk through your entire home:

• Vacuum under beds
• Be sure the bed is made with decorative pillows and matching blankets
• Place a scented candle on the nightstand and scented paper or sachets in closets
• Add a few books, art and pottery to your entertainment center
• Drape a textured throw over the corner of a sofa or chair
• Wipe down the washer, dryer, furnace, water softener and other appliances
• Put tools in bins in the garage or workshop
• Powerwash the patio and give decks new life with a coat of stain
• Place lawn furniture in conversational groupings and add miniature lights on trees or shrubs