Q: We're getting ready to sell our home and need some advise on what we should do to get the best price possible.

We read some of those magazines that talk about "staging" a house and it seems like more trouble than it's worth. We'd have to practically move out to do all that they say should be done. We can't afford to do that. We don't really want to ask help from any of the other real estate people on the Island because we plan on listing with my wife's sister who lives in Bellevue. We know a few of the real estate agents here and are hoping there are no hard feelings. Since your company doesn't list property but only sells we thought maybe you would be willing to advise us.

A: Don't worry about hurting anyone's feelings. Most professionals in the real estate business know that there are many things that come into play when someone selects a listing agent. I would recommend however, that you consider teaming with a local agent or working out a referral between your sister and a good listing agent on Vashon, so that you have representation from a local agent who knows our market.

As for "staging" your home I would say that in our fast paced market with such a low inventory you should do well without staging. The easy things you can and should do to bring a good offer quickly, include packing up most of your personal items like photographs, knick knacks and piles of clutter. Then clean everything inside and out until it sparkles. Tidy the yard and add some nice planters to the entry if you don't have flowering plants right now. Have the windows cleaned! Dirty windows darken a house and make it look unkempt. Have carpets cleaned, especially if you have pets. Spending a little time and money up front can add thousands of dollars of value to your home. I would also suggest fresh paint. Painting rooms, especially with a light, bright color, can make the place shine. Good luck.