Thinking of selling?

Thinking of selling once you have done all the hard work of cleaning, repairing and restoring? Now it's time to put a few finishing touches to make sure your home is presented in its best possible light, but don't go overboard.

An inexpensive and sure-fire way to create a welcoming atmosphere is to harness flower power. A bouquet of fresh cut flowers is always a welcoming sight in a hall or livingroom. Fresh flowers bring colour, fragrance and a touch of elegance to any room. Steer away from heavily scented flowers, such as lilies - not only do some people find their smell offensive, lily pollen can leave stubborn stains on clothes. Go with what is in season and try to chose something that reflects the atmosphere of the house. Opt for roses or a formal arrangement if you want to create a classic look. A pretty vase filled with daffodils or wild flowers may suit a more rustic or artisan home.

In the kitchen keep it homely and informal. A pot of herbs or a bowl of lemons or fresh fruit is always a nice idea.

Prune some books, CDs and other clutter from your bookshelves and place some pretty candles or plants in their place. Ferns or leafy plants are ideal for bathrooms.

Scented candles can be a bit over the top and should only be used in bathrooms or bedrooms.

Window boxes make a great job of the outside of a house and are relatively inexpensive. You can also spruce up the porch or entrance of your house with some potted plants.

It's important to remember, however, that if you go to the effort of installing lovely flowers and plants they must be maintained throughout the campaign. There is nothing worse that droopy flowers and sad looking plants during the second week of viewing.