This is a question that lots of homeowners are asking today. In my experience the homes that I have listed that are selling are due to the homeowners becoming realistic in the pricing home. I know how much better your home is then Joe's that just sold down the street, but the reality is, even if you were to receive a higher offer than Joe did...who is to say that the appraiser will see it the same way? The reality is that all the nice upgrades and pride of ownership that your home possess will probably add to the "sellability of the home" but may not persuade an appraiser as much. Granted, some upgrades like a pool, fireplace or extra bathroom have a measurable value but items like nicer ceiling fans and better landscaping are probably not going to be a factor. Keep in mind that in a declining market that every month your home sits it just became less valuable in price. Now more than ever the importance of hiring a qualified full-time REALTOR is essential. If you are just starting the process of listing your home I would recommend you interview at least two agents to compare marketing plans, sale guarantees, length of listing period and if the agent (agent's broker) will allow you to cancel the listing at any time free of charge.