Selling your home doesn′t just mean hiring a realtor to stick a sign out front. There are a lot of preparations you should make to ensure you get the best offer possible in the shortest time.

Repair: Buyers will research your property so try to avoid “repair requests” by getting them done early! Just because you’ve gotten used to the cracks in the walls and the rattles in the radiators doesn’t mean a buyer will be OK with it. If you have hardwood floors that need refinishing, try to get it done—hardwood is a huge selling point. Fix any sticky doors or drawers and update hardware. Finally, don’t forget to address any issues with the exterior—fences, shingles, sidewalks, etc. After all, without curb appeal, some buyers may never get to see the inside.

Neutralize: You want buyers to see themselves in your home. If your living room has lime green shag, wood-paneled walls, and all your collectibles and personal photographs, this will be much harder for them to do. Try replacing any bold color choices in your floors and walls with something more neutral—that would appeal to the majority. Repainting and cleaning will make everything look fresh and new, and help prospective buyers imagine all the possibilities.

Stage: Once your house is clean and updated, it’s time to play dress up. Home stagers can add small details and décor touches that will bring out the possibilities in the various spaces in your home: lamps, mirrors, throw rugs and pillows, flowers, decorative soaps and towels, patio furniture. Home staging can be particularly useful if your home is especially old or if the exterior looks dated. Think of it as a little mascara and rouge—if it’s done right, you notice the beauty, not the makeup.