Experts say most buyers make their decision at first sight.

Prospective buyers will react well to signs your home has been meticulously maintained.

• Manicure landscaping: mow, edge and water lawn, trim hedges, weed and fertilize flowerbeds, and prune trees.
• Keep driveway clean and free of parked cars, and keep the garage door closed.
• Repair or replace loose or damaged roof shingles.
• Minimize cracks or crumbling on walkways, walls, or steps, and keep them clean and free of obstructions like toys or snow.
• Items from RV's to waste cans left out can contribute to a cluttered or busy appearance. Make sure that from the street, your property appears clear.
• Inspect appearance of interior window coverings from the curb.
• Repair any peeling paint or loose caulking on windows or other areas.
• Take steps to eliminate insect or rodent pests.
• Pick up after your pets or neighborhood animals.

While agents work the lockbox for a key, buyers have idle time to notice details.

• Apply a fresh coat of paint to the front door and frame.
• Consider adding pots of flowering plants in the entryway if weather permits.
• Eliminate cobwebs and groom doorway area windows, porchlight, or decorative glass.

Once inside, experts say most buyers are reaffirming their curbside decision.

• Give every room in the house a thorough cleaning and remove all clutter. HIring a cleaning service may pay for itself by adding to a buyer's perceived value of your home.
• For a sleeker, more spacious look, consider placing furniture from crowded rooms in storage.
• Clear kitchen counters of everything other than perhaps a few very pretty items. Ask yourself: "in a model home, would a professional decorator put your choice of items on the counter?"
• Remember: closets will be opened! Keep closets, cupboards, and even your attic orderly and neat. Since you are anticipating a move anyway, consider holding a garage sale or boxing and storing unused belongings.
• If necessary, repaint or clean/replace dingy, soiled or strongly-colored walls, and window and floor coverings with a light, neutral shade. Bright rooms look bigger, and neutral colors help buyers envision their own furnishings and decor.
• Repair dripping faucets, burned-out light bulbs, or cracked windowpanes.
• Repair cracks, holes or damage to plaster, wallboard, wallpaper, and tiles.

• Subtle scents of potpourri in bedrooms or baths and fresh baked cookies or cinnamon in the kitchen can make your home more inviting.
• Keep an attractive set of towels in each bathroom to be brought out only for showings.