RALEIGH, N.C. -- We know the fall and winter months are typically a slower time for home sales. According to the National Association of Realtors, home sales dropped nearly 3.5 percent last month.

However, if you're one of those families that needs to put their home on the market, the way your home is staged could make a big difference.

Spectrum News anchor Caroline Blair sat down with a few of the experts for a look at some focal points on the outside of your home that can really make it stand out.  

According to Showhomes Raleigh owner Frederick Pierson and designing stager Kristy Slater, you can following the acronym FOR SALE to help you keep focused on the right parts of the outside of your home.

F—is for sprucing up the front entrance, with flower pots or a welcome mat

O—is for openings and making sure spots like windows and doors are clear and functional

R—is the for the roof and ensuring it isn’t too aged or stained and the gutters are in good condition

S—is for ensuring your sidewalks are accessible and power washed

A—is for appearance of the curb and paying attention to detail

L—is for landscape, making sure you mow, edge and cut the grass

E—is for exterior condition, like the paint color, and condition of outdoor wood and shutters

For more information on Showhomes Raleigh, visit their website.