Showing your home is all important to its sale, and there are many ways you can help your real estate professional do his or her job successfully.

Here are some last-minute details that will maximize your home's selling potential:

• The television and radio are turned off or low enough to allow the salesperson and buyer(s) to talk, free of disturbances.
• If you have area rugs around, especially in high traffic areas, make sure that they have a good sticky backing on them to help prevent an unwary visitor from accidentally slipping and taking a fall.
• Children and pets are sent outdoors to play or otherwise entertained to eliminate confusion and to keep the prospect's attention focused positively on your house.
• Bad odors are eliminated. Air freshener is used before the potential buyer arrives, especially if you have pets or the house has been closed up for some time. Remember the Realtor's old adage, "If you can smell it, you can't sell it!"
• The house has adequate lighting (during daytime, drapes are open; at night plenty of lights are on, including the porch light). Consider replacing low-wattage lights with higher-wattage lights.
• Wood is stored next to the fireplace. In cool weather, light a fire.
• The kitchen sink is free of dishes.
• Magazines and children's toys are in order.
• Plants have been watered and look healthy.
• Fresh flowers are arranged tastefully around the house.

What You Can Do While Your House is Being Shown

• Be courteous, but don't force conversation with the potential buyer(s). Ask your real estate broker or agent if your presence is necessary. Generally Realtors counsel their clients not to be present when the home is being shown.
• Never apologize for the appearance of your home. Let your real estate broker or agent answer any objections.
• Leave it to your real estate professional to emphasize the features of your home.
• Let your real estate professional discuss price, terms, possession and other factors with the potential buyer(s). If the prospective buyers or their agent try to engage you in a conversation about "price and terms," kindly, but firmly, tell them that those matters are best discussed with your Realtor.
• Remember, your real estate broker or agent has the experience and training necessary to bring negotiations to a successful conclusion. And, if you've followed the guidelines provided, you'll know you've already done your part in helping your home sell by making sure it creates a good first impression.