Clear the clutter
You want to aim for space and light. If you're short on storage space, consider renting some short-term storage or fill up your car or your mum's attic with extra items. Buyers will have difficulty imagining their things in place if your clutter is overwhelming.

Check your services
Take a good look at your boiler, fusebox, roof tiles, downpipes, guttering and loft space. These are the sorts of things buyers look at (see Avoid the Delays and Viewing a House). Make any necessary minor repairs. It pays to be prepared and could translate into getting a good offer.

New light
Examine your house at different times of day - buyers will. Bright sunlight can highlight more potential problems - dusty paintwork, broken tiles - than dusk.

Spring clean
Give the place a good clean: wipe down the woodwork, have the carpets cleaned, wash the sofa covers, whiten the grouting in the bathroom, buy a new shower curtain - small things can make a big difference.

Tidy up
Keep the place tidy. Wash the dishes (or hide them in the dishwasher), make the beds, pick up the towels in the bathroom, do a quick hoover. Buyers are put off by mess.

'Mmm, smells good...'
Okay, okay, we all know the smells of coffee brewing and bread baking are house doctor clichés but, let's face it, they smell a lot nicer than overflowing rubbish bins or dirty towels. For a different accent, try a light pot pourri or essential oil but avoid cloying air fresheners and heavy incense as they can be off-putting.