Create a “Buying Mood”: Turn on the lights, air conditioner or heat, open the drapes, light the fireplace and play low background music.

• Create Space: Clear halls, stairs, and rooms of surplus clutter and furniture. Pack away unnecessary clothing and remove empty boxes.

• Maintenance: Repair leaking taps and toilets. Tighten door knobs and latches. Oil squeaking doors. Repair and paint cracked plaster. Repair seals around tubs and basins. Repair squeaky floor boards.

• Exterior Appearance: Keep lawns cut, trim hedges and shrubs, and weed and edge the gardens. Clean out the garage. Touch up paint to the exterior.

• Squeaky Clean: Clean and freshen the bathrooms, clean the fridge and stove (inside and out), clean around heating vents, clean washer and dryer. Don’t forget to clean carpets, drapes and window blinds.At the Front Door: Remember to watch for first impressions. Ensure entrance to the front of the house is clean. Paint or varnish the front door. Repair door locks and key access. Repair screen door. Ensure the door bell works and finally clean the porch and foyer.