Weve all heard the stories of people selling their home the first day it comes on the market and getting more than they asked for at incredible terms. This might happen in just the right market at just the right time but most of us live in the real world. That doesnt mean you cant get your price and your terms, it just means you have to be smart about selling your home.

1. Spruce up your home and property. In order to get prospective buyers in the door you can increase your curbside appeal with a little window dressing and by making those repairs you have been putting off.

2. Clean your room! Or in this case All your rooms. Your mother was right on with this advice. You wouldnt believe the number of sales that have been lost due to dirty kitchens and bathrooms, clutter, stains and strange odors. Theres no excuse for showing a dirty home.

3. Make your home more accessible! The more accessible your home is the more it will be shown and that gives you better odds of finding a buyer willing to pay top dollar. A lock box is favored because it offers realtors unlimited access (within reason) to show your home.

4. Remember this is business. Dont allow your emotional ties to your home cloud your judgement. You may be selling the home that little Jimmy and Janet grew up in but the buyer is just buying the house that they want to make into their home. Youll have your memories, your pictures and your money to take with you to your new home.

5. Pay for a home inspection. Once youve got them in the door, what can you offer a purchaser that makes your home more appealing than the one next door? How about a home inspection? You know theyll want one if theyre serious so why not beat them to the punch by offering them a comprehensive home inspection report possibly combined with a home warranty that reassures prospective buyers that the property is in good condition and that certain repairs will be covered by insurance.

6. If your home is not selling do something! The longer your home is on the market the less likely you are to get a full price offer; you run the risk of becoming a stale listing. After the first month goes by dont hesitate to take steps to renew enthusiasm for your property. If you have made any repairs or are prepared to offer new incentives then host an Open House to announce it.