When my client's ask me for advice on what needs to be done prior to putting their home on the market, I always tell them that they only have one chance to make a good first impression.  Nothing makes a better first impression than a sparkling clean house!

Recently I took a some clients to see a home in Burbank.  When we walked in the door it was a disaster area!  The carpets were stained and the walls were filthy, there was clutter every where!  My clients couldn't see past the mess.  A couple of days later the listing agent called me for some feedback.  When I told her that my client's couldn't see past the mess she asked if my clients would go back to take a second look if the house was cleaned up, by that time we had written an offer on another property.

If you want top dollar for your home, then it needs to be in tip top shape when you put it on the market.  Cleaning your home should include de-cluttering, organizing closets and cabinets, washing windows and deodorizing.  Making a good first impression is something you only get one chance to do!