It is true that whilst the price is right, a property is likely to sell. However, people tend to form emotional connections with different properties and quite often are prepared to push that one step further to acquire them. This is why the presentation of your home or staging of your home is so important.

The saying that first impressions last is most valid when it comes to real estate. Most people make their mind up about a property within the first 30 seconds of seeing it. Therefore the first thing on your 'to do' list is to create curb appeal. Clearing the garden, replacing the old tatty letter box even repainting your door are all things that you can do create a positive first impression.

Now that you've convinced them to see the inside, here is a list of things that you can do to make them stay long enough to see why your home stands out from the rest:

#1 CLEAN : You wouldn't buy a new car that was filthy on the inside without it being detailed so why should your home be any different? If you're not one for cleaning then a good investment would be to contract a cleaning service on a weekly/fortnightly basis for the period of your sale campaign.

#2 FIX : Do you have a broken door hinge or a leaking tap but have never got around to fixing it? Don't give buyers the wrong impression. Reduce the amount of work that someone else will have to do by fixing these small things. These little problems add up and could be the difference between a buyer offering more or less.

#3 ELIMINATE CLUTTER : Do you remember how big your home looked when you first moved in? Buyers need to get a sense of space. By removing clutter you are presenting more of your property.

#4 NEUTRALISE : Neutral colours sell. Buyers looking at your home want to picture themselves living in that home. By staying neutral you allow them to do this. Don't go for creative patterns or unique colour combinations because more often than not it will put a buyer off.

#5 DE-PERSONALISE : Remove any items that are contentious or that potential buyers won't be able to identify with. People need to imagine that your home could be their home.

Some key tips :

•  Pay particular attention to the kitchen and bathroom. Both of these areas play a huge part in being the difference when picking one home over the other. Insist that they are sparkling clean and free of clutter.

•  Let off an inviting odour. Don't go over the top as this too can be off putting. If you have pets make sure that there is no animal smell present when people are walking through your home.

•  To get an idea of things you could be doing to better show off your home it may be worth while taking a look at a model home. What they display inside these homes is what you should be aspiring to accomplish yourself.