Make Your Open House Irresistible

1. Put fresh or silk flowers in principal rooms for a touch of color.

2. Add a new shower curtain, fresh towels, and new guest soaps to every bath.

3. Cut up an apple, add cinnamon and water and cook on medium heat to get the homey smell throughout the kitchen. (Put it away in the refrigerator before the showing!) Or set out fresh baked goods...mmm!

4. Set the table with pretty dishes and candles.

5. Buy tasteful new doormats, repaint the front door and add a seasonal wreath or potted flowers.

6. Take one or two major pieces of furniture out of every room to create a sense of spaciousness.

7. Put away kitchen appliances and personal bathroom items to give the illusion of more counter space.

8. Lay a fire in the fireplace. Or put a basket of flowers there if it's not in use.

9. Depersonalize the rooms by putting away family photos, religious items, mementos, and distinctive artwork. These items are precious to you, but your home has changed from an expression of your beliefs and hobbies to an item for sale to the public--let them be able to imagine the house as theirs

10. Turn on the sprinklers for 30 minutes to make the lawn sparkle.

11. Turn the radio on low to a station that plays soft jazz or classical music.

12. Control temperature. Keep the house warm in winter, cool in summer.