Hint #1

When cleaning your house to get ready to go on the market, start to pack your books, knick knacks, extra clothes, etc. in moving boxes and store the boxes in your basement or garage. It is important to show an uncluttered home. Do not be concerned if the basement or garage are filled with boxes; the prospective buyers assume you are packing to move and will feel reassured that you will be out of your house by the closing date! And, nobody will fault you for a garage or basement full of boxes -- it is more important to keep your house neat!