In a perfect world we would all love to make a nice profit with the sell of our home. There are many factors to take into consideration, most importantly the decor, which will improve our chances of selling quickly and making a few dollars.

Future buyers need to have the best possible perspective of what it would feel like to live in the house, here are some things to make it easy.

1.   The kitchen!

Unless you have a kitchen that is falling apart there is no need to renovate it. If the cabinets are in good shape- give your kitchen a good clean, maybe change the door hardware, you could even paint the cabinets if the color is out of date. Take down the fridge magnets, de-clutter the counter surfaces and fix any minor repairs. If you renovate your kitchen for the purpose of selling, there is a risk that the future buyers may not like the choice of the new kitchen and you may not get your return investment.

2.   The bathroom!

Just like the kitchen, unless your bathroom is falling apart there is no need to renovate it. Clean, clean and clean again is the most important detail in the bathroom. Maybe invest in new bathmats and shower curtains- even a fresh coat of paint will help the perspective buyers visualize themselves in the space. But, if they do feel the need to renovate, by keeping the space clean and clutter free it will make the job much simpler.

3.   Curb Appeal!

A perspective buyers first look at a house is from the street, make the first impression a good one. Clean up the yard, clean the windows and any dirt that is visible on the house. Add some potted flowers and a welcome mat. These are very simple items to add which gives the buyer the best "first impression." Make a focal point out of the front door it will give the buyer a hint of what is inside. Give it a coat of fresh paint or a polish, replace the hinges, handle and bell if they need it and make sure it doesn't squeak!

4.   Spacious feel!

If you live in a large space or not, it is still important to make the living space feel light and airy. It is key that the buyers see the house and not the decoration. Clear the clutter from shelves, remove a few pieces of furniture- de personalize your home. Of course keep some of your family photos and personal items on display but don't over do it. Mirrors are a simple decorator trick that creates the illusion of space. They can be hung above the fireplace, in hallways and in smaller rooms. The ability to visualize ones self in a space is easier when there is less decoration.

5.   Windows!

If the house has windows in poor condition, it might be worth while to replace them. If you have drafty windows, dry rot or even mould- it is suggested that they be replaced- the good news is that they will be factored in to the price of the house. If they are still in good condition give them a good clean, vinegar and newspaper is the best, paint the frames and let the sun shine in. Clean your window treatments- wash or vacuum your draperies and dust your blinds on the inside and out. Another suggestion is to spray draperies with an odor eliminator.

6.   Neutralize!

It is a good idea to give your house a fresh coat of paint in neutral colors. Why? It is the easiest way to allow potential buyers visualize themselves in the space. If a home is decorated in vibrant or dark colors it is much more difficult for a buyer to see themselves sitting on their sofa in the living room if the colour is deep purple.

7.   Storage!

Clean out your closets and basement and de-clutter your shelves. This all important factor doesn't cost a thing but your time. A future buyer needs to see how much storage space their is in the house and it is not possible when the closets are overflowing.

8.   Good Lighting!

Unless your light fixtures are a tell tale sign of your favorite decade there is no need to replace them. Give them a good dusting. A vacuum cleaner usually has a brush attachment which works wonders on hard to reach and delicate surfaces. Make sure all of the light bulbs are working and make sure the wattage is soft- not harsh and there is no glare. If your house has a few dark corners it is wise to invest in a floor or table lamp- something which lets viewers to see all corners of the house. If your light fixtures are old or have a distinct style it is suggested to replace them with something more neutral.

9.   Pets!

If you have a family dog or cat a potential buyer can usually smell it as soon as they walk in the front door. It is necessary to rid the house of any pet odours, any hair and any toys or pet beds that may be in the open. For the time being, until the house is sold, it is a good idea to move the pets bed to the basement and clean the house of the smells. Everyone loves the family pet but not necessarily want to share the same living space.

10.   Natural Materials!

If at any time while living in your house there comes the need to do a repair or replace an item- make sure it is with neutral materials. If your backsplash needs replacing- choose a natural tile. If your carpet needs to be replaced- choose something like hardwood, tile or natural fiber carpets. Again this allows the potential buyer to visualize themselves with their furniture in your space- which is an all important factor when trying to sell your house for the best price.

Although these items may seem like a lot when you are selling your home, it is wise to take them into consideration in order to get the asking price and have a quick sell. Visualization is very important for a potential buyer and the sell could be quick if the buyer has already moved in mentally!