SPRUCE UP HOME FOR BUYERS.

Byline: GREGORY J. WILCOX

Dressing to impress might just bring some life to this moribund residential real estate market.

Don't look for the components of this makeover in the closet, though. The paint and cleanser aisles are where to start.

It's known in the business as curb appeal. And the Nov. 7 edition of the Realtor Report from the Van Nuys-based Southland Regional Association of Realtors offers the following tips.

The basic and time-tested theory is that ``staged homes'' sell quicker and generally fetch a higher price.

Here's some suggestions.

Start at the street: You've got to catch the eye of drive-by buyers, so make sure the house is visible from the street. Trim back the landscaping, put trash containers out of site and get rid of clutter. Paint the front door and set out some plants.

Remember the foyer: Welcome potential buyers with a clean, open space, put some flowers in a vase and keep the table neat.

Clean, clean and clean some more: If this is too daunting, hire a crew. Make the place spotless and check for cobwebs.

The furniture: Of course, you need some. Empty houses don't sell as easily as tastefully furnished ones. But don't have too much furniture, either. Put the stuff you don't need out of sight. Arrange the furniture to highlight the home's architecture.

Use furniture wisely: In other words, put a dining table in the dining room and beds in bedrooms.

Fix things: Make sure everything is in working order and fill any dings in the wallboard. Don't give potential buyers the idea that you didn't take pride in the house.

Paint things: The old look you are comfortable with might not be the best selling point. Try a coat of neutral paint; clean the carpeting and floors.

It's not yours anymore: You are trying to sell the house, so forget about making it your own. Take down personal photos and put away clutter. It's also a good idea to pack up any kind of personal collection. You want buyers to think of your house as their house.

Outside input: Have friends come by a preview of the work. Ask them for an honest opinion and don't take offense at what they say.

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