Ask The Michelle Cannon Team

It's nearly impossible to keep your home in a "show-ready" state day in and day out. In many cases you may find that your home will be shown to a prospective buyer with very little advance notice.

Even if you're keeping things as clutter-free as possible, a little preparation for the actual showing is probably in order. Here are some short-term ways to get your home looking and feeling its best.

Step 1: Cleaning Frenzy

• Scrub tile in the kitchen and bathrooms.
• Thoroughly clean hardwood floors.
• Vacuum carpets. If time permits, rent a steam cleaner to shampoo carpets, particularly in high traffic areas.
• Dust all wood furniture, TV screens and computer monitors.
• Clear counters of all clutter. If time permits, move unnecessary appliances and decorating touches into storage areas.
• Clear the kitchen sink and counters of all dirty dishes.
• Pick up all dirty laundry. Avoid over-filling any open air hampers - laundry is better kept out of sight inside your washer or dryer.
• Remove stains from bathtubs, toilets and sinks.

Step 2: Critical Eye Test

• After doing the first round of cleaning, take a walk through the house with the perspective of a buyer. Look for clutter, excess furniture or highly personal touches that might turn off prospective buyers.
• Try taking pictures of main rooms with a digital camera for an "instant review".

Step 3: Curb Appeal Checkup

• Sweep the entryway, porch and walkways.
• Mow and water the lawn.
• Store any toys or garden equipment.
• Clean up pet droppings.
• Clean gutters and downspouts.
• Add potted plants to the porch or deck.

Step 4: Closing Touches

• Turn on all lights.
• Open drapes and blinds.
• Open windows to let in fresh air.
• Burn scented candles or open jars of lightly scented potpourri. If you don't have either on hand, you can always bake cookies (the oldest trick in the book) or simmer a few drops of vanilla extract on the stove.
• Turn off all TV's, stereos and computers.
• If possible, relocate pets to a friend or neighbor's home during the showing.
• Clean the litter box thoroughly to rid your home of smells. If pets can be temporarily relocated, remove the litter box entirely.
• Hang fresh towels in every bathroom.
• Put fresh liquid soap or bar soap in each bathroom.
• Remove rugs to showcase hardwood floors.
• Put out fresh flowers and fill candy dishes.