Time to go Martha style!

Ok, you may or may not be a fan of our hostess with the mostest, but you have to hand it to her....she has perfected the fine art of living.  From the driveway to the front door, guests feel welcomed and want to see more!  I guarantee that she does not have mismatched towels in her bathrooms, dirty dishes in her sink, or her kids latest school science fair project commanding space in her dining room.  Even if it did win 1st place!  This is the time to clear all surfaces and show your home as if Martha Stewart herself was coming for dinner.  Don't worry, you don't have to spend a lot of money.  Start at the front door.  Walk in your home as if it was for the first time. Now, here's the time to be honest with yourself.  Take notice of the powder room.  Are the towels clean and nicely hung?  Do you need to do some touch up painting on the walls or cabinets?  Does the faucet have a chinese torture like drip?  Put a great smelling candle on the counter or a small vase of flowers.  Move on to your living room.  Does your furniture layout invite conversation?  Fluff the cushions and pillows, put away stacks of magazines.  How is your kitchen?  Would Martha want to make her mothers pierogies in there?  Would she be able to find your fridge or is it covered up with little Susie's latest Picasso?  Continue through your home, really look.  Is there ANY part of your home that you might be embarrassed about or not want anyone to see?  Even a closet.  New home buyers are nosy and are not afraid to open drawers, closets, toilet seats, etc.  C'mon, you know you would too!  Invite a friend over to help you with this process.  She|He might be able to see things differently, in a way that you cannot.  Again, you want to show your home in the best possible light, even if it feels 'staged'.  Remember, you must remove yourself from the idea that this is your home.  If you are looking for inspiration, go to any home retailer, i.e. Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, and see how they have 'displayed' their merchandise.  How are their beds made?  How does the store smell?  Now, since your there, buy that candle for your bathroom!