1. Advertise in high traffic areas - the MLS offers FREE open house advertising of every listing. You can also have your open house featured in the Republican for $75 by sending an e-mail to openhouse@repub.com. 2. Hire a cleaning service. A spotlessly clean home is essential; dirt will turn off a prospect faster than anything. 3. Mow your lawn, and be sure toys and yard equipment are put away. 4. Serve cookies, coffee, and soft drinks. It creates a welcoming touch. But be sure the kitchen has been cleaned up; use disposable cups so the sink doesn't fill up. 5. Lock up your valuables, jewelry, and money. Although you'll be present during the open house, it's impossible to watch everyone all the time. 6. Turn on all the lights. Even in the daytime, incandescent lights add sparkle. 7. Send your pets to a neighbor or take them outside. If that's not possible, crate them or confine them to one room (a basement or bath), and let the potential buyers know where to find them. 8. It's awkward for prospective buyers to look in your closets and express their opinions of your home with you there. If you feel comfortable enough, try to give the buyer's some space while they look. 9. Turn on the sprinklers for 30 minutes to make the lawn sparkle. 10. De-personalize the rooms by putting away family photos, mementos, and distinctive artwork. 11. Put away kitchen appliances and personal bathroom items to give the illusion of more counter space. 12. Add a new shower curtain, fresh towels, and new guest soaps to every bath.