Selling a home, especially in our current economic environment, can be challenging. No one is taught in school how to do this. Many real estate agents do not have the courage to advise their clients to make certain changes to a property to make it more appealing. Most buyers are looking for homes that are move-in ready and require little or no work or updating.

Sellers that need to sell very quickly can also consider selling to a real estate investor. Investors pay less, but they pay fast and usually in cash. There are services now online which allow sellers to submit their property address and access a nationwide database of potential buyers. Execute the following tips before putting a "For Sale" sign in your yard.

1) Remove Clutter
Take down all personal items from the walls including magnets on the refrigerator. Remove clutter from countertops like toaster, coffee maker. Tackle closets too. The neater they are the bigger they appear. Remove large pieces of furniture that make a space appear small. Box up and store all items which are not essentials somewhere out of the house (neighbors, family, rent a storage unit).

2) Simplify Landscaping
Curb appeal is important. This is part of a buyer's first impression. Cut back overgown bushes and trees and lay down fresh mulch. Purchase some potted flowers to place around the front of the house and back patio. Pull the weeds in the front and back yard.

3) Powerwash Driveway
Remove oil spills and other stains (for example, mold) from driveway, garage floor, sidewalks and even the curbing in front of your house. On cement driveways, a liquid drain cleaner like Drano can help remove oil stains.

4) Fresh Paint
This is a very inexpensive tactic that pays off huge dividends. Put a fresh coat of paint on the interior walls. Use neutral colors that will be appealing to the widest range of shoppers. Touch up the front door, the entryway and the garage door too.

5) Clean Carpets
Have a professional clean your carpets. Most houses can be done for about $100. This service makes the rugs look plush and new. If you have pets, the carpets should definitely be addressed to remove all animal hair and dander. If it is taking too long to sell a property and a faster solution is needed, presenting the property to real estate investors is an option. There may be a local real estate investors association in your area. Or, take advantage of new online services where you can just enter your property address ZipBuy for access to a list of potential buyers.