There are many challenges to face in the market, but following some simple rules may help put you a step ahead.

Start out by making a good first impression. Curb appeal is very important and if your house looks rundown on the outside, people will assume the same about the inside. Buyers want to feel like they could live in a home from the moment they pull up in front of it. Basic improvements such as exterior painting, cutting the grass and planting some flowers improve the look of a home from the outside tremendously.

Watch out for any odors in the home that could turn away buyers. Be sure to professionally clean the carpet and the furniture and replace carpets if necessary. Keep pets clean and the home free from dander. Consider taking pets and pet cages if present in the home with you when you leave for showings.

Consider repainting inside with a neutral shade that will be attractive to a wide variety of buyers. A little putty and paint can make all the difference. Repair damaged dry wall, gouges in wood surfaces and anything else that looks like it needs work.

De-clutter your home by packing up knick-knacks, heirlooms, personal collections, and even family photos. After all, they are special only to you and your goal is to make the home presentable to the widest number of people possible. Expensive collections should be packed away as well to keep them safe.

If you own a gun, be sure it’s unloaded and lock it away. Don’t leave it accessible to anyone viewing your home, especially anyone with children. The same is true for prescription drugs, fine jewelry, valuable art work, money and anything else you want to keep safe.

By putting these easy rules into effect, your home will look better in no time and be more appealing to buyers!