It happens...you are at home watching TV and the phone rings asking if some potential buyers could see your home in 30 minutes. You want to get your home sold, but this isn't the best time especially when you see that pile of dishes in the sink! It's not good to decline a showing because that could be "the one" and they might not come back!

So what do you do? Say yes to the showing and follow these tips.

1. Start where the potential buyers will start: Make sure that the front door presents well.

2. Create a positive mood. Open the draperies, pull up the shades, and let in the sunlight. Rooms bathed in sunlight appear bigger and make a positive impact on buyers.

3. Its an evening showing? Turn on all the lights.

4. If it is cold outside, keep a comfortable level of heat. If it’s summertime, keep your property cool.

4. Put any dirty dishes into the dishwasher.

5. Make the beds.

6. Put any dirty laundry inside the washing machine.

7. Keep pets out of the way—preferably out of the house or in a kennel for the showing.

8. Please arrange to be absent during the showing of your property. Buyers are more comfortable and candid if the owners are not present.

9. If you must be present, be courteous and do not engage in conversation with the buyer. Let the trained salesperson answer the buyer's questions.

10. Finally, play soft music during the showing of the property.