It's a good idea to place your home on the market as far in advance as possible of purchasing a new one.

Keep in mind that when people move, sell and buy, there usually is a domino effect. Closing and moving dates have to be coordinated, and the more firmly everyone commits to a window of dates and sticks to them, the better for all involved. Put all agreements about dates in writing, and protect yourself by negotiating financial penalties for failure to comply.

A home that's visually appealing and in good condition will attract potential buyers driving down the street. Use this checklist to view your property through an outsider's eyes.

Are the lawn and shrubs well maintained?

Are there cracks in the foundation or walkways?

Does the driveway need resurfacing?

Are the gutters, chimney and walls in good condition?

Do the window casings, shutters, siding or doors need painting?

Are garbage and debris stored out of sight?

Fortunately, there are plenty of easy improvements you can make to your home's interior without spending a lot of money. Cleaning is No. 1.

Think, too, about how your home smells. Finally, set a mood for the buyer. Make your house homey with live flowers and fresh guest towels in the bathroom. Place scented potpourri around the house or, on the day you're expecting a potential buyer, pop a batch of frozen cinnamon rolls into the oven for a welcoming aroma.

Costly home improvements do not necessarily offer a good return on your investment when you sell.

Some homeowners decide to sell their homes themselves in order to save the commission charged by a real estate agent. Handling your own sale means you will be responsible for placing ads, answering phones and showing your home to strangers.

You may decide an agent's commission is a bargain the first time that a would-be buyer shows up unannounced at dinnertime. Also, be aware that a real estate agent probably knows a lot more about the business of selling a home than you do. Here are some of the advantages professional agents offer:

They will promote your home to other agents and list your property in multiple listing services. A multiple listing service is a book or computer database that all real estate agents who subscribe to the service can access. Your home will get exposure to all those agents, one of whom may have the perfect buyer.

They will create, pay for and place advertising for you.

They will schedule appointments to show your home to prospective buyers even when you are not there.

They can weed out buyers who will not qualify for a mortgage.

They can refer you to sources for insurance, inspections, legal counsel and financing.

They will help you negotiate with the buyer.

Your location

Economic conditions

Supply and demand in the local housing market

Seasonal influences

Local schools

Average home prices in the neighborhood

Your home's extras -- pool, fireplace, central air, etc.

The buyer's debt and credit history

The buyer's current income and employment

The buyer's cash position and availability of a down payment

The length of time the buyer needs before closing on your home

How interested the buyer appears to be in your home versus others

The sale price

What is included in the sale price -- draperies, carpeting, light fixtures, heating oil, etc.

The amount of the down payment

The date of settlement and possession date

Contingencies to the sale--inspections, required improvements, legal review of the contract by the buyer's or seller's attorney, etc.

The amount and length of the mortgage loan, interest rate and time limits to secure the loan

Determining which closing costs are to be paid by the buyer and which by the seller