1. The seller should be psychologically prepared to sell the house. He/she should let go of (as much as possible) any sentimental value regarding the house and see it as a product for sale. It is no longer a home. This usually takes some time and effort especially if the seller has lived in the house for a number of years and has many memories there.

2. A whole house inspection conducted by a professional. An inspection will uncover any major defects before they can cause trouble to the new would be occupants. It also is a signal to buyers that the seller care for the house and the new would be occupants.

3. Prepare the house and determine how much the value is. The seller should look at the house as objectively as possible. The seller should put himself/herself at the position of a prospective buyer. Would he/she buy this house? The seller should also ask friends and neighbors to do the same, asking them to be totally honest. Overlooking defects may cost money! The seller should get them fixed before the house is placed on the market.

4. The seller should do what is necessary to make the house stand out from any competition and give the best value for money as compared to the competition. He should make certain that the house is fresher, cleaner, and better maintained. He/she should also be familiar with effective marketing and advertising techniques. He should also look at the other real estate comparables within the area.

5. The seller should remove most of the personal effects or "imprint" that have seller been made on the house. Having a few family pictures around is fine, but if the house looks more like a "shrine" to the family--walls full of personal pictures--the seller should take some steps to depersonalize it. Buyers must be able to envision themselves in the house, which is nearly impossible if everywhere they turn they stare the seller.