TV star Linda Barker will be giving handy household hints and tips each month.

In her first column she looks at ways of helping to sell your home

Costly home improvements don't always guarantee a good return on your investment when you're trying to sell your house but inexpensive cosmetic changes can really help to get you a buyer.

These days potential buyers seem to spend a lot of time driving around to look at the outside of properties before they make an appointment to see the inside.

So, make sure your home is visually appealing and looks in good condition from the street.

If there is a front garden, make sure it is neat and tidy. Does the driveway need resurfacing? Are the gutters, chimney and walls in good condition? Do the windows need painting? Are the dustbins out of sight?

OK, now you've got them interested. What can you do to the inside to get yourself a sale? Well lots, actually, without spending a lot of money.

Clean First. Clean. Your windows, floors, kitchen and and bathroom should sparkle. You can hire a machine to shampoo dirty carpets and oil squeaky doors.

Get rid of your clutter. This is the single most effective way of increasing the appeal of your home. If there's too much furniture, think about putting some of it into storage.

Take some trips to your local charity shop or just throw out stuff you no longer need. A boot sale may work or you can try to sell stuff on e-Bay.

Let your space show!

Think about your colour scheme and decor. Bold, exciting colours may put off more conservative buyers.

It could be a worthwhile investment to paint your walls with neutral off-whites and creams.

This can also make small rooms seem larger.

Sense of humour Get rid of anything that might cause offence. Your potential buyer may not share your sense of humour! Think, too, about how your home smells. You may be used to cat or cigarette smells but it can really put people off.

Make your home bright and fresh with flowers and new towels in the bathroom.

And, as a final touch, put half-baked rolls into the oven just before your potential buyer arrives and get a fresh pot of coffee going! Good luck!