Open window coverings. All drapes, curtains and blinds should be positioned to let in maximum light. Buyers like a house to be "light and bright".

Make sure the house smells good. Smells like pet odor and smoke may not bother you but could be offensive to potential buyers.

Create a pleasant and inviting fragrance especially in the kitchen and bathrooms.

Place potpourri or candles around the house. Scented candles smell good and look great, try placing them in groups of three for more decorative appeal.

Air out the house just before the scheduled showing.

Remove all clutter and personal items. Your house should look like a model home, furnished but not lived in. This will help potential buyers picture themselves living there. Make sure that everything is spotless.

Close garage doors, for a neater exterior appearance.


Bathrooms should be fresh and clean, sinks and baths scrubbed, and the floor cleaned. 

Coordinating bath towels, used only for showings, should be neatly placed on towels bars.
 
All clutter from counter tops, tubs and shower stalls should be removed.  Neatly arrange items that must stay out in small groups.

In the kitchen, make sure all dishes are put away and counter tops and sinks cleaned.

Remove everything from the kitchen counters except one decorative item such as a fruit bowl or a vase of fresh flowers.

Remove pictures, magnets and notes from the refrigerator.

Appliances should sparkle.

Check the thermostat to make sure that the house is at a comfortable temperature.

Remove pets from the house, or at least, keep them outside. Pets under foot will quickly put a damper on an otherwise positive showing.

Make sure Fact Sheets are available and easily accessible.
 
Always leave the showing to your Realtor. If possible, leave the house during the showing. If you must be home then make yourself as inconspicuous as possible. Potential buyers are not there for a social call and your presence may make them feel like they are intruding and cause them to rush through the showing.