Consult with your agent prior to open house and listen to his suggestions. Don’t be offended with your agent’s suggestion. They’re there to help you.

Make the house spotless. Hire a cleaning service and give them specific instructions. You might have to pay extra for certain items. It’s a small investment compare to what you might get out of it. 

Keep toys and miscellaneous items off floors. Keep kitchen counters clean and free of unnecessary items. Put away kitchen counter appliances. 

Keep the number of pictures and notes on your refrigerator door to a minimum.

Keep all lights on, especially if your house does not get enough outside light.

Open all cartons, drapes and blinds. Let as much light as possible into the house.

Keep your pets outside in the yard or preferably out of the house. 

If you are in the house while visitors are present, avoid following them around. This makes an uneasy feeling for them who might be potential buyers.

Decorate your house with flowers and small art items. Don’t overdo it.

If you recently changed the carpet or waxed the wood floors, it’s ok to leave a note asking visitors to take their shoes off. Ask nicely.

Keep your valuable items such as expensive art and jewelry in a safe place and out of view. Take them with you if you prefer. 

Make sure the yard is clean and the lawn is mown. 

Make sure that your house is cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather.  Adjust your thermostat. 

Keep pictures and memorabilia to a minimum. They might be very important to you, but visitors are there to see your house and not necessarily your personal items.

Give your house the spacious look it deserves. Coffee tables and big furniture are necessary for your use, but they limit the open space especially if you have a small family/living room. Move large furniture to the garage for the open house. 

Make sure your house smells fresh. Don’t go overboard with spraying.