With so many condo owners trying to sell, it is no secret that you have some competition when attracting potential buyers to your home. The key in successfully selling your condo is to rise above the rest and leave a lasting impression on those who visit. Not only will this help you to sell your condo, but it will also assist in receiving offers closer to your original asking price.

The key to transforming your condo into a great salesperson is to make your home appealing to all five senses.

1. Sight

The first sense you have to appeal to is sight. First impressions are the most important. Be sure that everything in your home is clean and tidy. It may be a good idea to to a little touch-up painting on any walls that have dirt stains or scuff marks. The lighter a room is, the larger it appears, so be sure to open your window shades and turn on all the lights in your home. This would obviously be a good time to replace any light bulbs that no longer work. Get rid of any "knick knacks" or clutter you may have lying around your home. Again, this will not only tidy up the home, but will help each room appear as large as possible.

Place a few candles on the kitchen or bathroom countertops, which help give off a good ambience and project a warm, inviting atmosphere.

2. Smell

Go beyond spraying a can of air freshener in the living room. You can cut up some fresh apples, top them with cinnamon and sugar and place them in the oven on a low temperature about 15 minutes before someone is scheduled to view your home. Using this trick, you may have a difficult time getting them to leave!

3. Sound

Set your stereo on some relaxing classical or jazz, but not so loud that you have to talk over the music. Another important key to keep in mind is that if you have any animals that would make noise such as a barking dog, have a friend watch them for the day so your visitors can focus all of their attention on your home and not on your loud pet.

4. Touch

Carefully clean all of your countertops, windows and floors. The last thing you want is for someone to step on or touch something sticky or dirty. All surface areas should be dusted and wiped down as well.

5. Taste

You might want to offer a cup of coffee and cookies to potential buyers to appeal to their sweet tooth. You can also offer something lighter such as a fruit bowl or vegetable platter.

The way you stage your condo has a lot to do with how fast it will sell and how much buyers are willing to pay. Be sure to take just a few minutes to make your home as inviting as possible and leave the lasting impression you need.