The resale value of your home depends on many factors, but one of the most important is how well your home shows inside and out. In order to maximize what you have, it's a good idea to do a spot check from top to bottom.

Although a lived-in home can exude a warm and inviting feeling, most buyers generally prefer to see a decluttered and clean living area. This gives a ready-to-move-in impression, and lets them visualize how they might set up their own furniture and belongings. Plus, rooms appear more open and give off a sense of spaciousness.

Here are some tips on how to maximize your home's assets:

The Living Room
If your living room is full of furniture, consider minimizing the clutter by removing some items you don't necessarily need. For instance, if you have two sofas and a love seat, open up the room by removing a sofa. You can also try to rearrange loveseats, coffee tables, bookshelves, and lamps to make the room look bigger.

The Kitchen
Kitchens should be kept as tidy as possible. Always wash and put away dishes before a showing. There's no need to install new cabinets or buy a new fridge - for an instant updated look, replace knobs and buy new curtains. Clean and clear the sink and counter area, and try arranging some flowers or potpourri on the kitchen table for a homely touch. The potpourri will beautify the room, and also help get rid of unwanted cooking smells. Baking soda also works against odours. Abstain from cooking large meals before a showing, and always empty your trash. Fix or replace leaky faucets.

The Dining Room
If you have a separate dining room area, it's time to show it off. Place some flowers on the table and set the table with your best dishes. This will entice buyers to visualize how nice their dining room set up could be too.

The Bathroom
Like the kitchen, bathrooms should be kept tidy and clean. Try to be minimal about the clutter on the sink and shower area, and fix or replace any leaky faucets or showerheads. Give windows and sinks a thorough wipe. Replace loose tiles and seal any cracks in the wall. Displaying a nice set of towels can also do wonders for the room.

The Hallway
Because the hallway is often a high traffic area, buyers are more prone to notice dingy or discoloured walls. Wash the walls, or better yet, give them a fresh coat of paint. Remove seldom-used or unused shoe racks, boxes, or tables for some decluttering.

Bedrooms
Although your bedroom may be the most personal space you have in your home, it should still be kept neat, tidy, and neutral. If you own a leopard-striped bedspread or a clown lamp, it might be a good idea to store it in your closet when prospective buyers come by. Make your beds and pick up any stray toys or clothes that may be lying around.

All-Around Tips
Scour your home for any basic repairs and maintenance problems that buyers may notice. Fasten loose tiles, seal leaky walls, repair broken or painted-shut windows.

It is also a good idea to have a professional check for bigger problems that may arise from outdated mechanics or an old roof or garage. Not being aware of these hiccups may cause trouble down the road, and could cost you thousand of dollars off your asking price.

Use neutral colours schemes for your décor. Neutral colours will appease all tastes and enable buyers to use their imagination, instead of fretting over how much it will cost them to repaint the walls or replace the curtains and blinds.

Lighting is also important. Ensure that all light fixtures have new and functioning light bulbs. Don't use low-wattage bulbs - it can make the room look small and dingy. In the day, open blinds and curtains to let some natural light stream in.

Check the basement and attic for any mould or dampness, and fix accordingly. These areas can be used as storage space, although buyers are still privy to seeing them. The more cluttered these rooms look, the less space seems available. Consider renting a separate storage area or garage to put away big items like furniture. Start storing knick-knacks, books, toys, etc. in boxes and place them in the attic or basement, away from sight. This way, your home will look less muddled, and you'll have less to pack when it's time to move.

Finally, if your home is carpeted, deep clean or replace the carpeting. Litter boxes should also be cleaned regularly, and pets, if possible, should be kept outside during home viewings. Smells tend to linger on heavy upholstery, so dry clean drapes and curtains.

There are many things to look after once you put your home on the market. Luckily, an experienced and considerate real estate agent will be able to walk you through this home selling process, and give you suggestions on how to maximize the resale value of your home.

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