I used to be obsessed with watching HGTV.  I loved watching all the design shows and learning design ideas to apply in my own home.  Nowadays, most of their programming is reality-tv based, which isn't so bad but what happened to all the design shows!?  Of the reality-tv shows that they do air, the one I enjoy watching and learn from for my own profession is "Designed to Sell."  I used to think, "people need to realize that they're buying the house and not the stuff in it" and "people, you can paint! who cares if you don't like that shade of blue!"  The reality though is just that:  if you want to sell your house quickly and for top-dollar, you have to make it EASY for buyers to imagine themselves living in the house.  Here are some quick tips to stage your house for sale:
1. This is a house for sale, not your HOME.  You have to depersonalize the house: start packing family pictures, trophies, diplomas, collectables, etc.  Imagine when you stay at a hotel- there's some pretty artwork above the bed and desk area but that's about it.
2. De-clutter.  You want buyers to notice the house, not your stuff.  Eyes get easily distracted when there's too much "visual stimulation."  Once again, start packing and store boxes in your garage, at a friends garage, or rent a storage space.  Don't think you can just hide things in your closets either!  Buyers are going to look at the house and see how much storage there is and this involves opening cabinets and closets, etc.  You want these areas looking as de-cluttered and organized as possible.  
3. Once you get rid of all the "visual stimulation,"  you need to CLEAN.  Clean everywhere (windows, window sills, on top of refridgerator, bathroom(s), furniture, floors, etc.).  Along with cleaning, make sure when you have an open house that the house smells clean/neutral, too.  Some people have an acute sense of smell and can get turned off by odors such as food, candles, pets, etc.
4. Finally the true "staging" of the house takes place now:  paint walls a neutral color.  Make sure all the rooms are as brightly lit as possible.  Help rooms look their best and LARGE by using only necessary pieces of furniture.  Store extra pieces of furniture away in storage.  Place some flowers in a vase in the kitchen to help make the place feel fresh and happy.   
You're selling a house and need to show off how roomy and comfortable it is!  Start packing personal items, clean and place furniture strategically in a room and just watch how you can sell your house quickly and for top-dollar.