In a down market, selling your home can be challenging to say the least. You are competing against tons of other listings; some perhaps even right down your street. Do not let the numbers get you down. You can sell your home. The key is to knowing the quick and inexpensive fixes that will give your house an edge over the others. These include improving the curb appeal, repainting, de-cluttering, sprucing up the kitchen, and refurbishing the floors.

The first look buyers get at your home is from the outside. If it doesn't immediately create a good impression, then most buyers won't even like to see it from inside. Since it's often difficult to be objective about your own home, have a friend analyze its front yard's appearance from the street. Ask them to note any faults or deterrents they see. These might include things like unruly plants, bushes, or trees. Your friend might also notice some cracked or peeling paint. Do everything you can to repair and fix up that would distract buyers form the beauty of your space. And don't forget the front door!

Make sure your door is clean and inviting. If needed, get a brand new one. If you do not need a new one or can't afford it, try destaining it and putting on some shiny new door hardware.

Next move inside and take a look at the walls. A fresh coat of paint in all the main rooms will do wonders for your house. Make sure you choose very neutral colors though, something in the range of white, beige or very light brown. Bold and colorful paint schemes may be fun, but they tend to scare away more buyers than they attract.

Another important consideration is cleaning out or getting rid of the clutter in your home. Buyers need to be able to picture the house as their own and that is very hard to do if your stuff is lying around everywhere. Try to remove all personal items from countertops and tables and shelves. For each piece ask yourself whether you have used it in the past year, whether you really need or want it. If yes, then pack it away to be pulled out at your next place. If no, toss it out or consider donating it to charity. You should also do away with as much of your own family pictures and any other artwork that really takes away universality of the decor.

The kitchen is usually the focal point of the home because lots of time is spent there. After painting the walls, decide if the cabinets need any work. An easy way to give the kitchen an updated look is to replace the cabinet hardware. If you have the resources, you might want to consider getting new cabinets' altogether or getting new countertops (possibly granite).

One last important tip is to take appropriate steps to revamp the look of your floors. If you have a carpet, get it steamed cleaned. This will reduce any pet odors and also get out old stains. If you have hardwood, consider having it polished and resealed.

These few steps may be simple, but they can make a dramatic difference in the selling presentation of your home.