Shopfront: Now that the property market is getting into full swing, those planning to sell their home should think about what needs to be done before putting it on view. That doesn't mean major redecorating, just a bit of sprucing up.
Have your carpets professionally cleaned by South Side Cleaners (01-6773563) from about €2 per sq yard or ChemDry (01-8303820), which charges a reasonable 32 cent per sq m (.03 cent per sq ft). ChemDry will also clean upholstery, charging around €170 to spruce up a three-piece suite. Use throws to cover sofas that are looking a bit tatty, but don't skimp on fabric - use big generous throws, with matching cushions. They don't have to cost a fortune. Dunnes have a good selection from around €40.
Bring your curtains to a dry cleaner: Craft (01-6688198) on Baggot Street and Excel (01-6776878) on Trinity Street have the best reputation in Dublin.
Paint your front door and the hall too in the interest of making a good first impression. Don't forget the brasswork. Polish up the door knob and letter box and any other brass trim. It's a dirty job but gleaming brass looks very smart.
Avoid an overcrowded hallway: a side table and a couple of chairs will furnish even the largest hallway. Large mirrors at eye level are good for reflecting any available light, and allowing viewers to admire themselves. Get coats and shoes out of the way altogether.
Invest in some window boxes (visit Pia Bang, 01-6715065) for ready-to-go pots with fully-bloomed flowers) or instal some kind of small tree or plant outside the front door (bay leafs are ubiquitous and expensive, but you could try slender conifers in wide pots).
Do all those annoying small odd jobs you've put on the long finger - loose towel rails, disjointed skirting, undone bath sealant - or have someone do them for you.
E R Maintenance (086-8299398) provides good handymen. Bring in Liffey Maids (01-8364052) to clean the house from top to bottom.
Free up your kitchen work surfaces by mounting your TV or microwave on purpose-made brackets at eye level and transfer everyday items - mugs, kitchen rolls, recipe books and utensils - onto a hanging rail with hooks (try B&Q, 01-6299499).
The same applies to the garage: hang as much as possible, such as tools and hosepipes, from heavy-duty hooks.
And don't forget to make the beds.
