1. Take a few moments to discuss what you're looking for with your spouse or partner before you start setting up appointments to look at properties. Make a list of "must have" features together, then discuss other "would like, but can live without" features. After you've looked at a dozen or so properties, re-evaluate your criteria. Often priorities shift with time.

2. Have a realistic idea of how much you can afford before you start looking (most lenders will pre-qualify you for free). Not only will this save time, but will also avoid needless disappointment on everyone's part. Note: Keep in mind that pre-qualified and pre-approved are two very different things. Don't mislead sellers by telling them you are pre-approved unless you have a commitment to lend from a mortgage lender.

3. When presenting an offer, be courteous and respectful of the sellers. In general, avoid criticizing the property with statements like "we don't care for the new carpeting, and therefore we'll have to replace it". This will not justify a lower offer and may possibly insult the sellers, decreasing your chances of their accepting your offer.

4. If you feel the property may be overpriced, yet the seller refuses a lower offer: Make your offer contingent upon the property appraising for the selling price or higher.

5. Request that you be permitted to walk-through the house (shortly before closing) after the furniture is removed to make sure that some of the home's faults weren't covered with furniture, rugs, or wall coverings. It is far easier to request compensation for necessary repair work before the house is sold than afterwards.

6. Request that the seller complete a property disclosure form, stating the condition of all aspects of the property, before you make an offer. If you are making an offer on a property listed with an agent, make sure you see the seller's disclosure information first. Agency-listed properties carry no guarantees, and it is the seller who is legally bound to be truthful in reporting the property's condition.

7. If you don't know much about building construction, don't worry. Simply make your offer contingent upon the property passing a professional home inspection. This is also an excellent way to become more familiar with the upkeep needs of your future home.

8. Put everything in writing. Your sales contract should spell out whether the washer and dryer stay, draperies, etc.

1. Make the Most of that First Impression: A well-manicured lawn, neatly trimmed shrubs and a clutter free porch welcome prospects. A freshly painted front door will help make that good first impression. Of course, no clutter in the yard or around the front of the house. If it is Fall, rake the leaves.

2. Invest a Few Hours in CleanUp, It Will Pay Big Dividends: Clean up in the living room, the bathroom and the kitchen. If your woodwork is scuffed or the paint is fading, do a little touch-up. Your prospects want to see how great your house looks, not imagine what it could look like.

3. Check All Faucets & Bulbs: Fix any dripping faucets and replace any burned out bulbs. You don't want your prospect looking at rooms in the dark.

4. Safety First: Pick up and Clean up any clutter on the stairs. Also, make sure any throw rugs are secure on the floor and won't slip or slide under foot. What about low hanging lights make your home free of potential hazards.

5. Make Room for More Space: Clean out any excess materials stored in closets and rooms. Empty space is better than full. Your prospect wants more space. They are also looking for storage space, so clean out the attic and basement so they can see the space.

6. Organize Closets: The more organized and clutter free your closet is, the bigger it looks.

7. Bathrooms need to Sparkle: Your bathroom is one of the most important selling points in your home. Make it sparkle. Put out your best towels and make sure the tub has fresh caulking.

8. Let the Light In, Let the sun in! Open the drapes and blinds to create a bright and cheerful atmosphere .

9. Turn on the Lights at Night: If it is dark when your prospects come, turn on all the lights, both inside and out. Lights add warmth and color and make prospects feel welcome.

10. Pets: It is best to keep your pets out of sight!

11. Avoid Crowds: Never have more than one prospect viewing your home at a time and avoid having crowds in your home when expecting prospects. Your prospect doesn't want to feel like they are intruding.

12. Don't Apologize: Never apologize for your home's shortcomings. If your prospect brings up something derogatory, and you don't feel qualified to deal with it, volunteer to get an expert opinion.

13. Don't Distract Buyers: When prospects are viewing your home, don't try to sell all your furniture too. You may lose the biggest sale, your home! Don't distract them with needless background noise such as loud stereos and TV's. Be friendly with little conversation. Prospective buyers want to view your home with minimal distraction.

14. Don't create sticky situations: When cabinet or closet doors stick in your home, you can be sure they will also stick in a potential buyer's mind. Save the explaining and repair them before selling.

15. Create Dream Bedrooms: Show your prospects a spacious look by getting rid of excess furniture. Clean and colorful bedspreads and curtains are a must