40. Give your home a welcoming aroma: make
fresh-baked
bread or heat cinnamon sticks in water on the stove.
41. Clear out the kids, toys and board the pets.
42. Turn off the television, stereo and radio to eliminate distractions.
43. Turn on all your lights -- including the outside entrance light -- even
in the daytime.
44. Put out your best towels and a nice tablecloth.
45. Don't be home during an Open House. Your absence will put buyers at ease
and give them a chance to spend more time looking at your home.
46. Let your sales associate do the talking. He or she has the professional
skills necessary to show your home in its best light.
47. Be polite but avoid conversations with prospective buyers. Your sales
associate needs to command their attention.
48. Don't apologize for the appearance or condition of your home. You may
draw attention to something the buyer overlooked.
49. Don't complicate the sale by tacking on drapes, furniture and rugs. Your
sales representative can discuss those with the buyer if it becomes
appropriate.
50. Keep your home on the market, and let your sales associate show the
house frequently.
51. Don't show your home to people who just drop by. They may not be
qualified buyers and may even be burglars. Take their names and phone
numbers and have your sales associate follow up.
52. Keep your home ready to be shown while it's on the market. Be prepared.
