We all have had the experience of someone important coming to the house and whether the visitor is an in-law, an old friend, or business associate you know the drill: Have the house in "show" condition.

For investors the situation is much the same: First impressions count!!!! Even though you may not be able to tell a book by its cover, you'll probably pay more for a book if the cover is inviting, and attractive.

If you have a home is for sale or soon to be for sale, in addition to a general cleaning here are some steps you can take to benefit from that all-important first look:

1. Start with the outside. Mow the law, prune bushes, remove dead branches and get rid of outdoor furniture you don't intend to move.

2. Paint the front door and window frames, or at least clean them up.

3. Check for leaks. A drip may not seem important, but does it suggest poor maintenance in those places that maybe the buyer can't see? Eliminate buyer worries and fix the little items which may be seen as clues relating to the general condition and upkeep of the house.

4. Clean out closets and storage areas. Paint them off-white inside to make them seem roomier.

5. Have a professional cleaning company clean the carpets. I would suggest this only if you are not replacing the carpets.

6. Caulk around tubs and sinks. New caulk invariably looks better than old caulk, and you'll also prevent leaks.

7. Replace bulbs that don't work and use as much wattage as is appropriate for each fixture, usually I use 100watt bulbs everywhere. Bright lights make homes seem, well