Create Curb Appeal
The outside of the house is the first thing that people see and as such is one of the most important factors to consider. Make sure that the landscaping is kept and all trash is cleaned up. A fresh coat of paint can go along way in improving the appearance of your house. Wash all the windows inside and out as well.
Touch up the Interior
Once again, a fresh coat of paint will make the house look and feel newer. It is recommended that it be painted weeks in advance to allow the paint time to dry and fumes to dissipate. Wash walls where paint isn't appropriate such as in wallpaper or paneling. Wash all bathroom tiles and carpets. Get rid of clutter where possible. Too much clutter makes your house appear as it is too small to be lived in. This is the last thing that you want a prospective buyer to think about their potential home. You may need to leverage off site storage if you find you don't have enough room or can't seem to part ways with your sewing machine from 1886.
Repairs
Obvious things like leaky sinks and damaged walls will stick out like a proverbial sore thumb. If a buyer is looking for a home that they don't want to spend much time fixing, this will be a turn off. Many of these cosmetic problems can be taken care of at a relatively low cost. If lacking the finances or just don't want to invest the time, offer a credit at closing up front so agent showing the property can advertise this fact.
Have Pets? - Look to eliminate odors
Has a certain smell ever elicited a memory, be it good or bad? Scent is one of the strongest senses tied to memory. A scent not welcome to the buyer can turn them off faster than a hole in the wall. We all love our furry friends but to others they are fur balls that they may be allergic to. Prior to each showing, vacuum and dust your home. Sometimes a carpet freshener will help get rid of stubborn smells. Another option would be to use potpourri or lighting scented candles when showing the house.