Nail that sale: Joe and Jeannie Leocha

Of course you hate to spend money on a home you are trying to sell. But a few targeted investments to make the house look better can pay off in a faster sale or a better price.

The Leochas' bathrooms are outdated, for instance, so Moe suggests refinishing the cabinets, installing new light fixtures and updating the knobs and faucets for a more modern feel. Cost: $200 to $400 per bathroom.

If you have a discerning eye, you can figure out the most effective changes to make yourself. Or you can hire a professional stager: A consultation might cost $200 to $400; if the stager executes the plan, expect to pay between $1,500 and $6,000, depending on the work involved.