Get your home ready for a successful open house and to sell for the best price.

After you’ve eliminated all the clutter, here are some last-minute tips to ensure a faster sale.

1. A house should smell good and not overpowering; air out ½ hour before showing. Open windows in the spring and fall.
2. Vacate your house while showing if possible.
3. Take pets away for the day.
4. Take toys and lawn ornaments off the front yard.
5. Sweep the front walk.
6. Open blinds, drapes, and curtains to the outside world, especially the front of the house (make sure windows are clean).
7. Turn a light on in every room.
8. Play music on low: soothing and pleasant.
9. Light fireplace.
10. Neutralize cigarette or pipe smell.
11. Place fresh flowers at the entrance and on the kitchen table.
12. Clear kitchen counter tops; open a recipe book in the kitchen.
13. Open a book in the bedroom on the bed or in a favorite reading spot.
14. Do a quickie wipe of all surfaces: kitchen, bath, toilet, and sinks.
15. Dry out sinks with a hand towel.
16. Keep the temperature at a comfortable level: cold days, warm and cozy; hot days, crisp and cool.
17. Take cars out of the garage (shows space).
18. Hide dirty dishes in the dishwasher (or stove).
19. Place clean hand towel and guest soap in bathrooms.
20. Place clean bath towels in bathrooms.
21. Hide dirty clothes in the washer and dryer.
22. Plump pillows and make beds.
23. Fold blankets and throws.
24. Stack all papers neatly.
25. Do a quick sweep of all floors.

Download a copy of this checklist to get ready for your open house!