Bake bread or cookies, or boil cinnamon sticks in water on the stove to give your home a welcoming aroma. Set out bowls of potpourri in the bedrooms and bathrooms. Put out fresh towels and new soap in bathrooms. Keep pet areas especially clean and free of odor. Put the pets away, and if possible, arrange to have them out of the house.
Some people are allergic or just afraid of animals.
This might sound mean, but children can be distractions, have them visit a neighbor. Turn off the television. If you're using an agent, arrange to be out of the house so buyers can feel free to open closets and cabinets and discuss their observations. Limit showings to the weekend and perhaps another day during the week. With this arrangement you can realistically have your house looking its best for prospective buyers.