7 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR HOME'S SELL-ABILITY

In this tough market, it's more essential than ever that your home stand out, but in the right way!

1. Maintain neutrality -- Customizing your home is great if you plan to stay there, but extreme colors and themed rooms can scare off potential homebuyers. Using neutral colors on the walls can help prospective buyers create their own vision for the house.

2. Less is more -- Even though you have not moved out yet, removing some of your furniture can help the house move off the market and can make it appear more spacious. It can also provide clear walkways.

3. That "new house smell" -- In preparing to show your home, you should avoid strong smells. Make sure to take out the trash and be mindful of what you cook in the days leading up to a showing. If you have pets, keep an eye on the litter box. Any odor that is too strong could send potential homebuyers running out the door.

4. Pay attention to the details -- If you never got around to that kitchen or bathroom makeover, then you can make some small inexpensive changes to spruce things up. Replacing the hardware on cabinets is a quick way to improve the appearance of older looking fixtures. Upgrading small items such a light switch and outlet covers can add a nice touch.

5. Maximize your "curb appeal" -- The front of your home is first thing seen by potential homebuyers, so keeping it presentable is a must.

6. Don't get too personal - Get rid of excess clutter such as newspapers, magazines, and mail. Be sure to put away your laundry and shoes. It's also not a bad idea to put away other personal belongings like pictures on the refrigerator or mantle. This will make it easier to the potential homebuyer to imagine their personal items scattered about.

7. Take care of repairs -- Save yourself some time and potential trouble by making repairs BEFORE you list your home. The repairs will have to be made anyway, so it is better to get them out of the way sooner rather than later.

First impressions can make the difference between a sale or no sale. Keeping things simple can give you a leg up on similar houses ion the market.

Source: msn.com/real estate