IF I'D KNOWN THEN ...

What Lucie B. Amundsen (left) learned from the experience of selling her home:

1. Given the affection I have for my property, I should have had my Realtor turn off the electronic feedback feature. He could have passed along any helpful information, while filtering out the more hurtful and pointed comments. Only listen to constructive feedback.

2. What drove me to the edge while my house was on the market was not so much the constant tidying, staging required when living in a product, but it was the loss of control over our lives. Looking back, I should have prepared myself for the long haul in this market. Because I adore my house, I just assumed other people would, too. Don't assume that people will love the house as much as you do.

3. I was a half-hearted seller. I needed to let go emotionally before I snapped the lockbox on the front door; this market eats wishy-washy sellers alive. Really make the commitment to sell before you list your house.

4. The marketplace was telling us something we didn't want to hear. Although it's true that it "only takes one buyer," there does seem to be a collective consciousness at work. Long before 40 showings, we should have taken our Realtor's advice to make a move -- either drop the price or reconsider selling. Listen closely to the market and act accordingly.

5. Staging a large bowl of candy on your buffet during an incredibly stressful time is not a sound idea. I gained 10 pounds since the "For Sale" sign hit my front lawn. Keep the fruit bowl filled at all times.