When you sell your house, you want to make sure it presents itself in the best possible way so that buyers who come in can immediately picture themselves in a well-maintained space with little upkeep. Here are some quick tips on how to make your house look its very best without a complete makeover.

1.) De-clutter: Remove almost all knick-knacks, photos and personal mementos from shelves, mantles, bookshelves, end tables, dressers. Make sure books are neatly arranged and the few items left after de-cluttering are strategically placed to enhance the overall look of the room. Get rid of all papers, kids' artwork, toys, calendars, refrigerator art and magnets. Don’t forget closets—potential buyers may open doors so go through all closets and remove half of the items. Arrange items that are left in a neat and orderly way. Standardize hangers and have clothes facing the same direction. Fold linens neatly and arrange soaps and other household items in baskets or other organized ways. Arrange kitchen dishes and pantry items so that space doesn’t look overcrowded. Completely clear all kitchen counter-top surfaces.

2.) Place some of your furniture in storage: Create sitting areas that make the rooms appear spacious but not sparse. Make sure any worn or outdated furniture is either repaired or removed from the space. All rugs, pillows and other items must be clean and fresh. Get rid of outdated furniture such as large TV cabinets or overstuffed sofas. Furniture should have clean lines and a neutral color palette.

3.) Scour the kitchen and bathrooms: Even if bathrooms and kitchens are not updated with the latest appliances or expensive tile and glass, make sure all surfaces are clean and sparkly. Remove all stains from grout. Repair any obvious problems such as leaky faucets or cracks in walls. Place fresh, clean towels and pleasant smelling soap in bathrooms. 

4.) Create great curb appeal: Go outside your house and try to look at it from a neutral perspective and do what you can to make it look inviting. Plant fresh flowers in pots or boxes, clean up weeds and prune trees and bushes. Consider painting the front door and polishing door accessories (mail slot, locks, etc.).

5.) Let the outside in: Open windows and air out the house when weather permits. Remove heavy window treatments that block light. Get windows professionally cleaned inside and out. Place some seasonal fresh flowers in the entry way or living room.

Deborah B. Scheck is the founder of Deborah B. Scheck Interiors, LLC.  For more information, please visit www.scheckdb.com.