By Ronda Kisling, Nebraska Home Sales Realtor

It was beautiful. Every room flowed to another. Every detail was thought out. Each area of this house was going to have a purpose!

Every square foot was maximized to the best of its ability. Each room had a focal point. All the rooms had a combination of good lighting, jazzy artwork and simple, understated accessories. The rooms were dressed with a nice combination of textures and interesting objects.

We loved the color of paint on the walls. All the colors were neutral, soft and uncomplicated. We could move in right away. We could see ourselves living here.

The house spoke to us. It told us that there was plenty of room to entertain there. The counter tops were cleared and ready for us to make our special dinners. The bathrooms had those big fluffy towels and spa like feel. It smelled great. All the fixtures were polished and shiny; we could see ourselves in the reflection. The windows were so clean, almost invisible.

Your house has a past and a future. You will always have memories and attachment to your house. The future of your house clearly belongs to someone else.

Increase the perceived value of your home. Manage the first impression. Ask a home stager to help you. Many real estate agents will include this in part of their services and in the listing of your house.

If you want to sell your home, take down all those personal photographs and pictures. It is easier for a buyer to see themselves living there. They can see their future in the house. Get going on your packing early; minimize all your things to just what you need.

My background includes working with a home model designer for two weeks. I learned a lot in that time and it pays off for my clients.