•Holiday displays, including Christmas cards, should be removed and stored by the first week in January.

•Use degreaser and a razor blade to make basement windows crystal-clear.

•Remember to put away valuables while showing your home.  Expensive jewelry belongs in a safe deposit box.

•Have long-stemmed artificial flowers to pack?  Ask your local florist for a couple of boxes wholesalers use to deliver fresh flowers to florists.

•Even if your entire house doesn't need to be painted, putting a fresh coat of paint in a new color on the door and trim may keep a couple thousand dollars on your sale price.

•Don't wait until the last minute to call professional painters because their schedules may be filled.  Hire them as soon as you make the decision to sell.