Winning buyers

Selling a house can be like finding true love in that first impressions matter. Here are some tips for making a prospective buyer's heart go pitter-patter:

Spiff up: Deep clean and de-clutter each room. Replace or shampoo soiled carpet. Wash windows. Remove unneeded furniture to make rooms feel more spacious. Clear the magnets and photos off the refrigerator. Buy new towels for bathrooms and place fresh flowers in the foyer.

Paint the front door and window trim. Clear sidewalks, decks and driveways of snow and ice. Mow the lawn and prune shrubs. Buy a new welcome mat.

Stop living in the past: Replace dated kitchen and bathroom hardware and fixtures with the latest styles and finishes. Apply fresh paint in main living areas in deeper neutrals such as tans, browns and greens.

Only the nose knows: Eliminate smoke, mildew and pet odors and leave a clean scent.

It's all about spin: Hire an experienced real estate agent who can sell the positive features of your house.

Create a little ambience: Keep house comfortably warm in winter and cool in the summer. Open blinds and turn on the lights. Play soft music.