Practical steps to sell for more

You can get top dollar and sell quicker by following these guidelines:

1. Make a good first impression. Keep your lawn trimmed and edged. During winter, keep snow and ice removed from sidewalks and steps.
   
2. Welcome prospective buyers with a clean and painted front door. A seasonal door decoration adds warmth.
   
3. Assure a quick sale and top dollars by decorating. Faded walls, worn and scratched wood-work reduce appeal.
   
4. Show the bright side of your home by opening draperies, curtains and blinds.
   
5. Entice buyers with a clean kitchen. Many judge the housekeeping by the oven and the stove. Clean until it shines. Baking soda is good for removing stains, and it will not mar the finish.
   
6. Sell your home with sparkling bathrooms. Repair caulking in bathtubs and showers. Shower door, ceramic tile and grouting should be polished and free of water marks and stains. Consider a professional deep cleaning of the whole house. It will do wonders!
   
7. Avoid cluttered appearances. Remove excess furniture and other items you seldom use. Clear stairways are essential and safe.
   
8. Make closets look larger. Remove Items that can be stored elsewhere. Neat, well-organized closets show that there is ample space.