Ideally, real estate agents want the properties we market to look spotless, but even the most impeccable housekeepers find it difficult to keep the house in prime showing condition all the time.

Keeping the beds perpetually made, dishes washed, bathrooms spotless and the closets neat is a lot of work. Is it worth it? Yes, it is -- if you want to get your house sold in a reasonable amount of time for the best price.

Often when buyers see normal household clutter, what registers is "this place hasn't been maintained." They see bathtub rings and think "plumber's bills." They see lint under the refrigerator and grease on the electric range and imagine having to replace all of the appliances. It isn't particularly logical, but people often respond with their feelings when buying a house. When making their final selection, buyers may be going on emotion and adrenaline rather than reason and logic. You can help your real estate agent by minimizing the amount of imagination they will need to fall in love with your home.

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