In some areas, it's customary to advertise that a house is open for inspection by anyone who cares to walk in, by putting out flags and balloons. In other cities, discreet sandwich signs on street corners point to the welcoming properties.

In any case, there are rules for proper deportment by everyone concerned: sellers, buyers, and real estate agents.

To begin with -- the seller.

Your role is to polish the place, pull back the drapes (unless there's a used-car lot next door), turn on all the lights, turn off the TV and the dishwasher, get rid of the kids and the dog, -- and above all:

Get out of the house and leave it to your agent. You'll only inhibit prospects who want to look the place over carefully.If you want to spy on the proceedings, go over to a neighbor's.

As for buyers -- don't hesitate to visit, even if you're not yet ready to buy. Brokers can be lonely, giving up a Sunday afternoon to sit in a house, and will welcome you.

Don't be worried if you're asked to sign in. If it were your house, wouldn't you want people to identify themselves before they entered?

And of course you'll wipe your feet, restrain your children, and put out your cigarettes before entering.

Neighbors have a role also. Of course you're curious about the house and would love to poke around. You needn't be embarrassed about entering. You don't need an excuse. Agents know that it's a good idea to welcome you. Sometimes a neighbor can be unexpectedly useful, suddenly remembering that Cousin Karen always said she'd like to live on this street.

As for brokers -- of course you accompany all prospects. None of this sitting in the livingroom watching the football game and just waving people through. When you leave you put out lights, turn down the heat, check the doors. It's cordial, also, to leave a note -- "House looked great, five prospects came through, I'll call you to give you their reactions."

And I wish you good luck!