Here's a critical bit of home selling advice: Don't even think of putting your house on the market until you've taken a close look at its condition! You usually only have one shot at impressing potential home buyers, so take some time to prepare the house for showings. You may be rewarded with a faster sale - and a higher offer!

Here are some simple and effective ways to improve the interior of your home:

Interior touch-ups

• Put a fresh coat of paint in the most used areas of the home. This will clean as well as brighten up the rooms.
• Wash all floors and bathroom tiles.
• Shampoo dirty carpets.
• Repair cracks, holes, or damage to plaster, paint, and tiles.
• Repair broken or cracked window panes, moldings, and other woodwork.
• Replacing air filters will help keep the dust down.

Bathroom and kitchens

• People will notice a leaking or worn-out faucet. Replace dripping faucets and showerheads.
• Clean under the sinks. If there are any leaks fix them. Then clean up the damage using contact paper or paint.

Clutter

• Clean out your closets, garage, basement and attic. Use self storage if necessary.
• Clean up areas of your home that you tend to leave daily items, such as mail and clothing.

Get rid of any bad smells in your home

• Pay attention to pet or cigarette odors.
• Place scented potpourri around the house.
• On the day you're expecting a potential buyer, pop a batch of frozen cinnamon rolls or home-made bread into the oven for a great aroma.

Things to keep in mind when showing your home ...

• Keep all countertops clear of clutter.
• Don't leave Dirty dishes in the sink or counters.
• Replace any burned out lightbulbs.
• Open all drapes and window blinds, let the natural light come in to your home.
• Put on pleasant or soft music.