Would you go on an interview in your pajamas?

When interviewing for a new job you want to put your best foot forward. You pull out your "interview outfit," update your portfolio and résumé, and get all your answers ready for those tough questions. You want to be sure that you are perceived as the best candidate for the job. You want an employer to just HAVE to have you on board. And, of course, you want to be able to collect the highest possible salary for the position.

Do you think that all would happen if you walked into the interview looking unkempt with a shoddy résumé and terrible communication skills? Of course not! Then why let your home interview without preparing properly?

When you list a house for sale, it is essentially on display and "interviewing" to be someone's home. Buyers, like employers, look for the perfect candidate. A house that is clean, updated and beautifully staged will be perceived as being well-maintained and move-in ready. It will therefore demand a higher asking price than one that isn't. Showcasing the home's positive assets and showing the target buyer what life would be like in the beautiful home helps them to make that all-important decision to purchase.

Why take chances with what is likely a homeowner's largest asset? Prepare the home and prepare well. It will pay off in the end. Don't let your listing's photographs turn off a buyer. Wow them and entice them to come for a personal tour.

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