Don't make the mistake of thinking that just because you live in it and keep up the maintenance, it's ready to show to potential buyers. That simply won't do. We all get comfortable in our surroundings and don't really check them out with a critical eye. On the other hand, potential buyers look closely at everything.

Further, buyers are very susceptible to first impressions. They may be seeing as many as 6 to 8 houses in a day and are quickly walking through yours on the way to the next one. If their initial impressions are bad, they'll just keep on walking. On the other hand, if at first glace your home looks great, they may stay longer and, more importantly, come back.

So what can you do to fix up your home so that it shows itself off, so that it has maximum "curb appeal?" Here are six tips that probably won't cost more than a few hundred dollars, yet which should yield eye-opening results.

#1 - Clean Your Driveway

Get rid of those oil and rust stains. (There are preparations available at building supply stores to help.) Your driveway usually occupies up to a third of the front of your lot. It makes a big impression, so make sure that impression is good.

#2 - Paint/Stain Your Front Door

This is where the buyers first come in contact with your house. Make sure it looks good. You may also want to put on a new set of door handles. Of course, if the front of your house has worn paint, be sure to take a weekend and repaint it.

#3 - Plant Colorful Flowers

Put these at the street edge of your lot, on the walkway to your front door, and at the rear of the house. The flowers will lend your home an aura of fresh beauty. Of course, be sure to also keep your lawn mowed and your shrubs trimmed.

#4 - Clean Your Carpets And Floors

People tend to look down when they walk, so they'll quickly notice any stains and wear marks on your carpeting and flooring. Cleaning will help in most cases. Of course, if your carpets are well worn, you may want to replace them. Usually cleaning is all that's needed for tile, wood and other flooring. But, you may need to fix scratches and breaks.

#5 - Paint The Walls

At least those walls that buyers will see first when they walk into rooms. Over time, walls always get marks on them, and that acts as a detraction. A few gallons of paint and a weekend of work can do wonders. (Don't worry about ceilings, they rarely get dirty.)

#6 - Keep Your Kitchen And Bathrooms Spotless

When buyers come by, everything should be clean and all pots, pans and food put away. Scrubbing helps a lot. Of course, if your appliances and fixtures are old fashioned, worn, or damaged, you may want to replace them. Yes, replacement could be costly, but it could result in a significantly higher price for your home and a quicker sale.