From a buyer’s point of view, the most appealing homes are those that look as if they could be moved into right away. The more your home gives this impression, the faster it is likely to sell. One of the most effective techniques for making your home appealing is to keep the interior pleasant, but neutral. “Most buyers have very little imagination,” according to top-selling realtor Barbara Shoag, “so if the house is cluttered or has dramatic wallpaper, most people will be put off because they can’t see past the highly personal decorations.”

1. Repair anything broken: loose boards, dangling fixtures, cracked windows, etc.

2. Take a look at your house from the outside. Does the trim need painting? Does the exterior paint look dreary?

3. Fix chipped paint or peeling wallpaper. Paint a neutral color inside.

4. If you are planning to replace your carpet, choose a neutral color (gray or beige).

5. Tidy each room and arrange each one as invitingly as possible.

6. Put away any highly personal or eccentric decorative items.

7. Plant colorful flowers or put attractive flower pots or window boxes in front of the house to add to your home’s curb appeal.

Think of your open house as an opportunity to show prospective buyers what a gracious home and comfortable life they would enjoy if they bought your place, and set the stage a little bit to get their imaginations going.

Clean the house, of course, and pick up any clutter. Set the dinner table attractively and place vases of fresh flowers in various rooms. Turn on soft or classical music to create a relaxing mood. An hour or so before the open house, bake cookies or put something aromatic in the oven to give the house an inviting smell. But avoid heavy air fresheners or other strong artificial scents. Turn on all the lights in every room no matter what time of day it is. And finally, excuse yourself while the house is shown. Expert realtors find that if owners are around, potential buyers will say nice things and leave. If owners are away, buyers can express their concerns freely and the realtors can then discuss them in a candid way.