It is important to remember that when selling real estate, we are essentially selling "space" and not an owner's furniture or any other personal items.  In order to make the most of the "space", I recommend the Seller prepare their home by doing the following:

EXTERIOR

» Clear walkways of leaves and debris
» Remove garden hoses
» Stow children's and pets' toys
» Move garbage cans out of sight (garage, perhaps)
» Open patio umbrellas
» Refresh lounge cushions
» Uncover barbeque, pool, spa, or hot tub
» If needed, add some fresh color to landscape beds
» If possible, add wood chips to landscape beds (this low-cost fix-up goes a long way)

INTERIOR

» Replace ALL burned out light bulbs (I can't stress this enough)
» De-clutter
» Stow children's and pets' toys/beds
» Freshly dust/mop dark floors (a flash highlights dust/traffic marks, especially in new construction)
» Remove oversized family portraits (smaller framed photos are usually okay)
» Remove ALL magnets and papers from the surface of the refrigerator (important!)
» Clear kitchen counters (a few appliances are okay)
» Stow any dishes, including pet food & water bowls
» Fold towels in bathrooms (tri-fold is best) and all toilet seats DOWN
» Reduce amount of bottles, etc. on vanities (no toothbrushes, no prescription bottles)
» Remove shampoo bottles & puffs from glass showers
» Stow bathroom scales
» Wash windows if needed