THE ABC'S -- PREPARING FOR YOUR HOME SALE

If you have been considering the idea of selling your home, you probably will wonder what you should do to prepare for that eventuality. Maximizing the value of your home is probably important to you.

Because the value of your home will primarily be a function of factors outside your control such as the current market, the competition, available financing, economic conditions and normal marketing time, it is critical to make the most of those things you can impact to enhance your value. Two things a seller can control include how accessible your home is for showing and the buyer's perception of its condition. So prepare by planning a showing strategy that ensures easy access for buyers who would like to see your home. The more visible you are, the more likely you will be to successfully sell at a favorable price. Equally as important is your willingness to put your home in condition that has broad market appeal. Buyers prefer homes that are clean, clutterfree and relatively neutral in decor (colorless) -- the three big C's. So investing time, and not necessarily money, in decluttering and cleaning can reap big financial rewards for your time. Even actual cash outlays for things such as new carpeting, paint and repairs will typically return far more than the money spent. Remember you will only get one chance to make a great first impression, so start at the street and critique your home from that point on through the interior. If you can create a positive initial reaction through your efforts, you will undoubtedly find that your home should sell within a shorter time for more money. Go for it and enjoy the results!