This week, among all my showings, I showed one truly exceptional home. It didn't have the fanciest appliances or brand new fixtures. It did have pure, uncontaminated, organization everywhere we looked. And boy, oh boy, did it stand out in the crowd.
It felt fresh and clean and new, even though it was 22 years old. Lived in to be sure-- And yet, we could tell that the current owners had taken special care of this home.
- The jars in the cupboards were lined up.
- The lamp cords were coiled and bound.
- The shoes were side-by-side.
- The trash can was empty.
- The chairs were tucked under the table.
It was an "A-Ha" moment. After visiting so many other homes that did not compare, the comment was made: "If these people can't even stand to see jar labels in disarray, then do you think they left plumbing leaks go unrepaired??" You're right!! And that was the shining moment-- the time when the decision was made to purchase. That was the time when my clients could see themselves in this home, and a sense of relaxation set in.
I wish that every seller could feel the impact of that moment when fear of the unknown was replaced by a sense of trust. Maybe then, the value of cleaning, de-cluttering, and staging would be appreciated more. Surely, there would be inspections, and surely there would be some problems. Afterall, the house was 22 years old. However, it seemed safer for these buyers to venture forward, and take the next step. And in this market during these times, removing fear is a giant step forward.
How can this de-cluttered organization be accomplished? It's not always natural for people. Chaos rules most households. And maybe it should sometimes when life is chugging along with kid's soccer games and happy evenings with friends. But, when you're selling a house, chaos needs control. Where to start?
Closets!
- Take everything out, and then put things back one by one.
- Seriously ask about the value of each thing before putting it back-- Does it fit? Do you wear it? Is it totally out of style?
- Group things together as you put them back-- Sweaters with sweaters; Pants with pants.
- Put non-clothing items in their own space-- a closet dedicated for sports items only; a bin for beach toys; an art supplies shelf. Separate and conquer!
- Discard shabby things and donate unwanted, good things.
- Use sturdy hangers-- recycle the wire hangers at a drycleaners. Hang pants on pants' hangers. Life will be easier!
Now, do the same for the kitchen and bathroom cabinets!
- Plan how you use each item and give it a home.
- Place similar objects (such as, spices) in their own container. Keep the small things in a collection.
- Group "like" things together-- all the cereal boxes in a row; all the hand towels folded together in one pile.
Now, For the Key to Success-- The Magic Secret--
Repeat this organizing once a month. It will be much easier because there is so much less to do. Don't let it get out of control again, and a sense of contentment will be your gift. Start today, and take one step at a time. If it's beyond your abilities, consider hiring a professional organizer. But don't try to sell your home with years of clutter because you'll pay for it. Rather, make your home stand out in the crowd, and reap the rewards.
Nothing new. No earth shattering information that has not been heard before. Just a gentle reminder that this is what it takes to get the job done.
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