Selling your home? Remodel and declutter first

Local real estate agent Rupert Bryan says going beyond the touch-ups to get a home ready for showing can help.

For example, in the kitchen, granite countertops are popular. He also recommends improving counter space and organizing cabinets to maximize space.

In the bathroom, Bryan says, people want tile, high countertops and amenities like jacuzzi tubs.

"If you were to flip a home – buy it and try to make a profit – (the kitchen and master bathroom) is probably where all your money would go to," he said.

But don't forget about the outside of the home. Reconsider the landscaping.

"That's the first thing they see when they come in and the last thing they see when they leave," he said.

Besides home improvements, Bryan offers these other recommendations: De-clutter and de-personalize your home, and consider renting storage space, if necessary. It's also a good idea, he says, to repaint walls in neutral colors.

By taking these steps, he says, it allows buyers to better envision what the home would be like for them.