Agent to install a Supra Lockbox in a place that's easy to find. If you don't, any buyer's agent will have to schedule an appointment, which most view as a big inconvenience. In fact, most buyer's agents will simply skip your property in order to show the property of a more cooperative seller.

Most buyer's agents will call and give at least one hour's notice before showing your home, but try not to turn away any agents – even if they give you very short notice. Buyer's agents spend a lot of time with their clients, and if you make it difficult to show your home, they will opt to show other properties.

Try Not to be Home
Home buyers will feel like they are intruding if you choose to be home when they view your property, and they probably won't be as receptive towards your home. When someone comes to view your property, take a walk, go to the grocery store, a coffee house, or any other activity that will occupy you for a short time while your potential buyers take a walk through your property. If you absolutely must stay in the property while they are there, try to stay as “out of the way” as possible and do not move room to room. Don 't volunteer any information about the home, but address any direct questions they might ask of you.

Lighting
When you are preparing your property for a viewing, turn on all the lights – indoor & outdoor – even if it's daylight. At night, a properly lit home will give a “homey” view from the street and during the day, it prevents shadows from the sunlight & it will brighten any dimly lit areas. Your property will always show better with the lights turned on.

Fragrances
Try not to use any scented sprays when visitors are coming. It's a little too obvious and your potential buyer might be allergic to them, or think that you're trying to cover up an offensive odor. If you'd like to have a pleasant odor in your home, accomplish this through potpourri or a “plug-in” that will give off a more uniform smell.

Pet Control
If you're a pet-owner, make sure your Realtor gives notice in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) so that the buyer's agent will be aware. If you know a buyer is coming, try to take your pets with you – if this isn't possible, then put your pets in the backyard. If you can't do that, then keep them in a contained area in the home – typically the garage.

The Kitchen Trash
Make sure and empty any visible trash cans before someone comes to view your home – especially if the trash can doesn't have a lid. Your goal is to only send positive images about every aspect of your home and trash never sends a positive message. You'll probably go through a few more trashbags than normal, but it will be worth it.

Keep the House Tidy
While you might not normally make your bed every day, it's a good habit to develop when you're selling your property. You want your property to appear as clean and “de-cluttered” as possible. Pick up any loose papers, and don't leave empty glasses anywhere. Try to make your home look like the model home – a home with nice furniture and no one living there.