Nailing the basics of decluttering.
When it comes time to sell, clutter can be detrimental to an efficient sale of your home. Not only does it affect the way your home presents to prospective buyers, but it inevitably makes moving much more difficult, particularly if you’re downsizing or relocating inter-state.
Whilst there’s no doubt that sorting through our lives can bring up all kinds of complicated emotions and stress, decluttering also comes with such a strong sense of accomplishment and achievement as you work towards a cleaner and more organised home.
Remember your why.
It’s important to remember the reason you’re removing the clutter as knowing your why gives the task purpose and a sense of urgency. When it comes to decluttering for sale, not only are you ensuring your property presents in a tidy, well-maintained way but you’re also making the task of moving down the track much easier and more efficient. Sounds like short term pain, long term gain to us!
Be clear on your task.
Don’t forget this isn’t an organising mission. After all, if your approach to organisation worked, you wouldn't be in this pickle! Turn your focus from getting tidy to actually removing the stuff you don’t need, want or love. If it doesn't add value to your life, it’s time to let it go.
Get stuck into the easy stuff.
Don’t start with the sentimental pieces or the things you are really attached to. Start with the simple knickknacks, candle holders, junk drawer items and old clothes that don’t get worn. Then look at the books you don’t read, towels you haven’t used in years and cords and chargers that don’t work or don’t belong to anything. Getting rid of the easy stuff will give you momentum and a sense of accomplishment to tackle the more challenging items.
Lighten the load.
It’s time to lighten the load by losing double ups and all those rainy day items. Whether it’s kitchen utensils, linens, towels or napery, it’s easy to grow quite the collection over time and it ends up cluttering up every cupboard and drawer you open. Instead, figure out exactly how many you really need and get rid of the rest.
Celebrate your efforts.
There are always going to be more tasks to be done when you're preparing your home for sale, so be sure to celebrate the small wins along the way. Whether you’ve decluttered your home, a room or even just a cupboard, it’s time to celebrate! Dust off those table settings you’ve just found and host a small dinner party or bust out some moves in your newly decluttered space - you deserve to celebrate your hard work in a way that resonates with you!