Step 1: Watch an Overview Video

Step 2: Take a Look at the House

Go across the street and imagine you're seeing the home for the first time. Make a list of the negatives: Is the yard overgrown and unkept? Are the gutters in bad shape? Does the house need a new paint job? You may have lived with these things so long that you don't even notice them anymore.

Step 3: Start With the Yard

Prune trees and shrubs, so they look neat. Place fresh mulch around plants and walkways. Keep the yard mowed and the leaves raked. Most importantly, add color. Flowers and greenery do wonders to cast your home in a new light.

Step 4: Examine the Exterior

You can probably make your home look a lot better by pressure washing it to remove dirt, mold and mildew. Give the shutters and trim a fresh coat of paint. And fix everything that's broken. Clean out your garage. Make sure that patio furniture and playground equipment is in good shape.

Step 5: Keep the Interior Clean

Wash your windows. Dust the furniture. Pick up any laundry or loose items lying around. If you have children or pets, let them play at a friend's house when prospective buyers are coming around. Show off your home by letting the light in, and be sure to use potpourri and air freshener to create a pleasant aroma in the home.