If the local housing market is slow and you need to sell, You will need to make your property stand out above the other houses for sale in the neighborhood without losing profitability.

*  Most sellers believe their house is worth more than the neighbor's place but pricing it above the market will turn off interested buyers quickly and you will have to prepare yourself for a longer time on the market.  Price it comparably with others in the area.

*  Hire a professional appraiser in advance if necessary to make sure you know what your house is really worth.

*  Your Realtor has experience in the housing market.  According to the National Association of Realtors, a home sells for 16% more on average when the seller uses a certified Realtor. 

*  Have everything repaired so potential buyers won't feel the house hasn't been well-maintained.

*  Be willing to accept paying some closing costs for the purchaser because buyers are strapped for cash and may need help especially in a slow economy.

*  Keep your house in ready-to-show condition to accommodate buyer at short notice.

*  Curb appeal can bring you buyers; Exterior doors should be clean and in good working order for a positive first impression.  Use wood putty around window sills if cracked & repaint.

*  It's essential to have carpets professionally cleaned, if it smells it will NOT sell.

*  Cleaning should include baseboards, corners, vents, & blinds.  Open blinds & curtains for a bright & cheerful look.

*  Check all light bulbs-buyers tend to turn then all on.

*  ELIMINATE CLUTTER EVERYWHERE.  Buyers want to VISUALIZE their belongings in the house.

*  Kitchen cabinets may look better wiped with lemon oil.  Countertops should be clean with free, open space.  Cabinets need to appear roomy & orderly.

*  Any bookcases should be neat with open spaces.  Loose wallpaper can be glued with "Elmer's"

*  Keep floor space in rooms & closets free of clothes, shoes, etc.  Closets should be limited to current season clothing.  AVOID OVERCROWDING.

*  Clean bathrooms may need to grout bathtubs, sinks & commode.  Limit personal items in bathrooms and hang clean, fresh towels.

*  REMINDER:  CLUTTER DOES NOT SELL WELL!