As a seller, you want your home to look its best for every showing. But you don’t have to hire a professional stager to get your home ready.

Here are some inexpensive things you can do to help your home make a great first impression:

• Get rid of the clutter. Cleaning and de-cluttering always rank near the top of suggested home improvements for sellers. In fact, 99% of real estate agents recommend that their clients do so, according to HomeGain.com. So go through your stuff and get rid of what you don’t need—or box it up and put it in storage.
• Rearrange your furniture to create easy walkways. Remove excess furniture to make rooms seems larger.
• Remove photos. They personalize your space, but they may also make it more difficult for potential buyers to visualize themselves living in your home.
• Make the space smell nice by using air fresheners or baking cookies before showings.
• Make sure everything is clean—floors, bathrooms, kitchens. Nothing turns off a buyer faster than grime.
• Consider paint. Paint is an inexpensive way to freshen up both the interior and exterior of a home. Try to keep colors neutral.
• Don’t forget curb appeal. Lawns should be cut, hedges should be trimmed and beds should be free of weeds. Plant some flowers to brighten the exterior and give it a warm feeling.
• Start packing up clothes and linens to make closets look larger.
• Open blinds and curtains to allow lots of natural light in, and turn on lights when buyers are expected.
• Don’t forget the garage. Get rid of clutter and organize your tools, bikes, etc.

Moving is one of life’s most stressful events. But it doesn’t just frazzle your family—Fido and Fluffy get stressed out by moving too.

“Moving is a very stressful time for people, and they should be aware that the same is true for their animal companions,” says Jodi Ziskin, a holistic nutrition and wellness consultant for animals. “It’s important to offer special attention and reassurance during these times of transition.”

What can you do to help your pet through a move?

• Don’t rush. Take your time packing and getting ready. Try to avoid the last-minute panic that often accompanies a move. Your animals sense your own stress, so stay calm.
• Avoid change. Keep your pet on its regular feeding and walking schedule for as long as possible.
• Create a safe place. If your dog or cat will need to be in a carrier, get him used to it beforehand. And if using a carrier on the road, make frequent stops to give pets potty and exercise breaks.
• Get pets familiar with their new location. If you’re not moving far, introduce dogs and cats to their new location before the move. You can even take your dog for a walk around his new neighborhood so he can get used to the scents.
• Check with your veterinarian. For some pets, a mild sedative might be necessary to ease the stress of travel.