Let's face it. Today's market and economy is producing an incredible strain on real estate sales. In order to help improve the sales potential of your home, if you are a seller, it may be necessary to make some minor home improvements that may also raise the market value of your home.

Energy efficiency is a major concern today. Buyer's are interested in energy efficient homes. Making a home more energy efficient is not a minor improvement, but, if affordable, it is a wise investment. A home that is for sale becomes much more interesting to buyers when windows, doors, insulation or appliances have been recently replaced. In the meantime, while you are still living there, your own bills will become much more affordable.

Improving the landscaping can be inexpensive and will create better curb appeal. Grass, flowers, bushes and trees can be planted and will attract a buyers eyes as soon as they see the home. This is something that any do it yourself person can accomplish at a reasonable cost. A buyer's initial response upon seeing a home for the first time from the road is extremely important. In fact, that first sight can be a decision maker. It can make or break the deal. So tidy up the front and back yards as soon as possible.

Fresh paint of neutral colors on the interior of the home is another cost effective measure to increase it's value. Little things, such as new kitchen cabinet handles and knobs can make a very big difference in the look of a room. Rearranging furniture to allow people to walk through it easily is a free but important improvement for every room. Decluttering and removing unnecessary items will make rooms appear to be bigger than what they actually are. Emphasizing neat and clean storage is also a must for a potential home buyer. A messy home can mean not enough storage which can make a buyer turn away. Lastly, if there are any pets in the home, make sure that there are no fleas around that may nip at a potential buyer.

Selling a home is not an easy task. After all, it is probably your biggest asset for which you want the best return. When there are so many homes on the market, it is vital that you make your home stand out from the rest. A buyer needs to think that they want to live in your home and will pay whatever it is to do so. Improving its appearance will improve its market value which will improve its potential to be sold quicker.