One of my often used sayings with those selling their home at a listing presentation is: "Marketing a home is not the same as living in one." The rebuttal from property owners is usually a groan.

But I have developed a handy checklist that is a good reference guide for day-to-day pre-showing "must do's." Pass this list on to house and pet sitters, nannies or anyone else who will be responsible for preparing your home for a buyer showing.

Stage it Well

• During daylight open all draperies, shades, and blinds. Natural light is at the top of most buyers' wish lists.

• At night turn on all the lights. Dark homes are not inviting. Don't forget outside light by the front door. Can your house numbers be read at night?

• Have photos of your garden available.

• Consider displaying before and after pictures of major remodeling projects.

• Use feature cards around your home to reinforce home benefits such as air-conditioning or nearby parks in winter months.

Keep it Clean

• Clean sinks, bathrooms before each showing.

• Vacuum rugs and carpets before each showing.

• Wash dirty dishes and put away.

• Empty waste baskets and trash.

• Put away clothes and personal items.

• Organize mail, magazines, and newspapers.

• Fold towels and make beds.

• Eliminate offensive odors from pets or cooking. No smoking in the house when your "on market".

• Keep landscaping neat and mowed. Sweep driveways and sidewalks. Shovel snow.

• Pick up litter on property.

• Clean litter boxes and pet food and water bowls.

• Pick up animal droppings in yard.

Keep it Neutral

• Minimize religious effects.

• Put sexually explicit materials away.