How to clean up when selling your home
Morris Digital Works Wire Service

These 10 tips can help turn your "home for sale" into a home that's sold:

The Best Approach.
The first thing a potential buyer sees is the front of your home. Make sure the lawn is freshly cut and the landscaping is neatly manicured. Touch up any chipped paint where necessary and remove any debris that has found its way onto your property.

Clear the Way.
Everyone loves a grand entrance. Umbrellas, coats and shoes should all find a home in a nearby closet or utility room. Move any large pieces of furniture that may block or obscure incoming and outgoing traffic. Try mirrors or flowers for a light and airy look.

Be a Space Case.
The bigger the better. Store any unnecessary furniture and items that may clog up rooms and halls in a storage unit. Allow plenty of floor and wall space to show. This will make your home look and feel larger to the potential buyer.

In the Clean and Clear.
Nobody likes a dirty house. Vacuum, dust and scrub your house from top to bottom. Even do windows and light fixtures.

Show Your Nooks and Crannies.
Allow porches, alcoves, garages, tool sheds and any other storage areas to show without shame. Hang yard tools and sporting equipment on walls or from the ceiling of your garage or tool shed. Remove items that are dust collectors and space mongers.

Clear the Closet.
Not many homes have enough closet space, but yours should look like it does. Clear out closets so they look well-ordered and spacious. Keep as many belongings off the closet floor as possible, and make sure it's neatly vacuumed. This gives the feeling of plenty of closet space to the potential buyer.

Lighten Up.
Keep curtains open to allow plenty of light to radiate in. Clean your skylights to allow maximum sunlight penetration. Remove any objects or furniture that may be blocking windows or sliding glass doors. Make certain all light fixtures have new, brightly burning bulbs. Remember, light equals space.

Two Moves Are Never Better Than One.
If you are going to move into a rental before buying a home, store your belongings and live with the bare necessities. This will keep furniture and breakables free from potential damage that could be incurred during extra, unnecessary moving.

Safe Passage.
Store extra belongings in a temperature-controlled, secure, well-lit environment. Knowing your keepsakes are in a safe place helps provide peace of mind during a stressful transition time.