To Get Top Dollar you will need a little savvy, a good plan, patience, and an advertising budget of $1000 or more - depending on how long you want the house to be on the market.  (Of course, if you decide to work with an agent, you won't have to spend the advertising money).   Think about "STAGING" your home as though it were a movie set.  Go through your home with a fine toothed comb and highlight everything that makes you smile.  Eliminate everything that produces a negative thought when you look at it.  Short Course, Below:  (See Staging Page on Menu at right for more details).   - Consider a fresh coat of neutral, light colored paint in every room, and outside.  This may not be necessary on some homes, but almost always pays off in higher offers and a faster sale.    - New Wall Coverings, and Flooring or Carpeting may or may not be a good investment.  Careful thinking needs to be done here. Anything that looks worn or tired will cost you money.  Colors that are out of style can sometimes be addressed by changing pillows and artwork without changing carpet or furniture.       - Empty the house of all clutter.  Store or replace dated or worn decor whenever possible.  Get rid of personal items, trophies, family portraits.  People don't want to see your stuff.  They want to see lots of room for their stuff!   Store boxes and unused clothing, excess furniture, family knick knacks off site at a lock and store facility.     - Visit a few "Builder's Model Homes" and notice how little furniture is really there.  Repeat this look in your house.  It will feel bigger.  Adding some nice plants and flowers can help if it feels too bare when you are done.  A Real Estate Agent will usually offer free advice about these things when you interview them.  If the house does not sell in a reasonable amount of time, you might do better to work with an agent. For more tips, Get our free email newsletter...  byowner@fsbo-toledo.com