Overwhelmed by Clutter? Here’s How to Manage “All That Stuff” Before Selling Your Home
Selling a home is a big task, and the thought of organizing, packing, and decluttering can feel overwhelming, especially when life’s everyday demands are still on your plate. If your stress level just spiked, take a deep breath—we’re here to help with practical tips to make the process more manageable and less stressful.
1. Start by Organizing Your Thoughts and Creating a Plan
Before diving into the physical work of decluttering, it’s essential to get your thoughts in order. Ask yourself: What do I really need to get done? Creating a clear plan will help you tackle the task in manageable steps. Here’s a simple approach:
- Make a Timeline: Break down your tasks by week or day. For example, plan to start packing, cleaning, and sorting rooms 1-2 weeks before your photography appointment.
- Prioritize Tasks: Focus on the areas that need the most attention, like the main living spaces and bedrooms. Leave less critical areas, such as the garage, for later in the process.
2. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff: Simplify Your Efforts
Are you debating whether to have a garage sale? If the idea feels like just another hassle, consider donating your items instead. Many thrift stores offer free pickup for donations—just call ahead to ensure they accept large furniture.
Another option is The Freecycle Network (freecycle.org), a service that allows you to gift items to others in your area. Membership is free, and it’s a great way to give your belongings a second life while decluttering your home.
3. Reduce Furniture to Make Spaces Feel Larger
When preparing your home for showings, less is more. Here’s how to make your rooms feel more spacious and inviting:
- Remove Bulky Furniture: Place large pieces, like china cabinets or oversized sofas, in storage or a neighbor’s garage. This helps potential buyers see the true size of your rooms.
- Simplify Your Spaces: In the living room, keep only the basics—one sofa, one loveseat, a couple of end tables, and some lighting. Remove any extra leaves from your dining table, and keep only four chairs to make the dining room seem larger.
- Temporarily Store Large Electronics: A giant TV can overwhelm a living room or den. Consider storing it temporarily, especially for photography and open houses.
4. Get Help and Stay Motivated
Sorting through your belongings can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Here are some ways to make the process more manageable:
- Ask for Help: Invite friends or family over to help you sort through items. A second pair of eyes can help you decide what to keep and what to let go of.
- Start Small: If the task feels overwhelming, start with one room or area at a time. Once you get started, you may find the process becomes energizing and even freeing!
5. Quick Tips for Last-Minute Prep
If you’re short on time before your photography appointment, here’s how to quickly get your home ready:
- Grab Storage Bins: Use storage tubs, laundry baskets, or boxes to gather all eye-distracting items like personal photos, papers, and extra decor.
- Store Items Out of Sight: Stash these bins in closets or the garage—areas that aren’t typically photographed.
- Tidy Up: Remove visible items from under beds, unplug and hide cords from electronics, and remove worn rugs. A neat, clutter-free space allows buyers to focus on the room itself, not the distractions.
6. Keep Your Home Ready for Showings
The effort you put into decluttering and organizing will also pay off when it comes time for open houses. With most of your items already packed, it’s easier to keep your home clean and ready for showings. Plus, a decluttered home allows buyers to picture their own belongings in the space.
Bonus Tip: Want to make sure your home smells as good as it looks? Check out this helpful article on keeping your home smelling great for open houses: How to Make Your Home Smell Great for an Open House.
Contact Chad Jones Photography today to schedule your next real estate photoshoot or video tour. Our team of professionals is dedicated to capturing your property in its best light, ensuring that every detail shines through in the final results.