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Exterior
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Remove any junk or clutter from the yard. This includes tree limbs and leaves, but especially goes for junk cars or parts, lawn tractors, etc.
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If the exterior of the house is dirty or moldy, powerwash it. If it is in need of paint, get competitive bids if you can't do it yourself.
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Keep your lawn well trimmed and edged. Trim trees if necessary, especially dead limbs.
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If the driveway is stone and looking lean, add a coat of gravel. If it is asphalt, consider resealing.
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Powerwash deck and porch and seal, stain or paint.
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Check gutters and downspouts to make sure they are clear and functioning properly.
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Add mulch to planting beds and around trees. An inexpensive but very effective way of freshening the look of the yard.
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Make sure the exterior (and the interior) of windows is clean and operational.
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Interior
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Arrange furniture neatly so that each room appears as spacious as possible.
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Clean windows and mirrors. Replace any cracked window panes.
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Make sure all closets are neat, clean, and organized.
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Check all faucets, toilets, and electrical items for correct operation.
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Clear kitchen countertops.
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Clean oven, sink, range top, and bath tubs.
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Steam clean carpet. Consider replacing the carpet if it looks old. You may also give a "carpet allowance".
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Paint dirty or marked walls or any rooms that are currently painted in dark colors.
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Replace the furnace filter. If the furnace is very dusty, find a professional to service it.
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Make sure all bulbs are working and have the highest wattage available and safe for each fixture. Brighter is better!
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Showtime
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Turn on all the lights in the house.
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Open all window coverings.
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Check the thermostat to make sure that the temperature is in comfortable range.
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Remove pets from the house.
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If it's cold, turn on the fireplace.
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Leave the house, take a short walk or go grocery shopping.
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