People choose to put their homes on the market for a variety of reasons, but in the end, the process is the same. Unfortunately for some, especially in this market, the "selling" can take quite some time.

The most important thing to remember is that you can't let things slip! Keeping the house organized, clean and tidy is a must. You never know when someone my want to see the house, and you will need to make the best possible impression.

Next, try to take the feedback from the potential buyers as possible action items. Are the bedrooms too small for one family? What can you do to make them look bigger for the next person through? Clear out some furniture. Perhaps a lighter colored paint will do the trick.  These bits of information will give you an idea of what the buyers are looking for and some great hints on how to make your home that much better the next time.

In a hurry? Money will always talk. While it can be painful emotionally, and on your pocketbook, you may need to consider lowering the price. Times are tough and there are a lot of homes on the market right now. If you aren't in a rush--it may be better to take the house of the market for a few months if you aren't getting many showings. Work with your Realtor to find out what might be your best bet, given your timeline and tolerance for a cost reduction.

The one thing that many of our selling clients try to do is to not look for their new home until their old one has had an offer submitted. It can be exciting to "window-shop" but it can also be depressing as homes you love go off the market before you are ready to buy. So unless you can carry two mortgages for the unforeseeable future, don't get your heart settled on a particular home. Instead, use the time to scope out neighborhoods, or areas of town that you will want to target when the time is right.