What's the first thing I should do to prepare a home for sale?

The first thing you need to do is start thinking about your home as a commodity that you want to sell. To be a successful seller, you must detach yourself emotionally from your home and be honest about how it should look in order to sell. Property condition and appearance play big roles in home sales. Buyers discount the price if a home needs work. You do not have to spend a fortune preparing your home for sale. Concentrate on cost-effective improvements that will give you a good return on your investment.

What improvements should I make when selling my house?

There is more than one way to sell a house, but most experts agree that spending time on a few basic home improvements can pay dividends. Projects such as resurfacing kitchen cabinets, installing closet storage systems, repainting rooms and hiring a cleaning crew to clean everything from walls and woodwork to carpets and mini-blinds can help sell a home. Other quick fixes that will catch a buyer's eye include freshly trimmed shrubs and trees, new house numbers or a new front door.

What is the least expensive repair I can make to get my home ready for sale?

Painting is the least expensive improvement you can make to a home. A neutral decor may seem boring, but it is a safe bet from a resale standpoint. The same goes for floor coverings: stick to neutral linoleum and carpet.

What are the best colors to paint the exterior of my home if I intend to sell soon?

Use neutral colors for the house--white, light gray or tan. You may choose a bolder complementary color for the trim, but save the most vivid color to accent the front door.

What color should we paint the interior of a house that we intend to sell soon? Do I have to live with a boring shade of white until we sell?

Not necessarily. Look for pastels and neutral shades that complement the carpeting and window coverings. Avoid dramatic colors such as red, bright yellow, bold blue or emerald green. Add bold accents with area rugs, tablecloths, sofa pillows, and quilts.

A yard or dock sign such as this one also helps: