In today's real estate market, sellers need to realize that many buyers are considering both new and resale homes. While new homes sport modern features, appliances and building materials, resale homes have a distinct advantage: family furnishings make it easier for prospective buyers to imagine the members of their household living there.

*An attractive entryway encourages buyers to step out of the car and to walk inside the house for a closer look. If necessary, repaint or replace front door. Put up a new mailbox, and replace the house numbers with shiny new ones.

*Landscaping plays a major role in improving the way the property looks from the street. Consider adding a tree to a barren part of the yard or planting colorful flowers by the front door.

*Cut down on unnecessary clutter in your rooms, closets and storage areas by holding a moving sale.

*While your home is being shown, eliminate any signs of pets, including litter boxes, chew bones and food dishes. If possible, keep pets off the premises by having a friend or neighbor watch them.

*Remember, kitchens sell houses. Be sure the floors, walls, appliances and counters are sparkling clean. Eliminate offensive cooking odors by simmering a pot of cinnamon sticks and water on the stove just before showing.

*Replace all light bulbs throughout the house with the highest wattage possible.

*Depersonalize your house by putting away family photos, political symbols, children's art work, ect. It's important for prospective buyers to envision their own personal items in the house.

*Put away children's toys. This is a good opportunity to sort and to discard old toys before moving.

*Rearrange furniture so the traffic flow runs as smoothly as possible throughout the house.

*Clean out the basement, garage attic and/or other storage areas in your home.