The Second Step for a First-Time Home Seller

Ask your agent to advise you on preparing your home for sale. Most homes show better with about half of the furniture removed. If a buyer walks in the door and wonders if anybody lives in the house, you've done your job correctly. Consider home staging to boost your selling power and appeal.

Painting is the single most effective improvement you can make. Don't let dings in the woodwork or scraps on the walls make your home reflect deferred maintenance.