Ah, the New Year—that magical time when we all believe we can transform into super-organized versions of ourselves, like a cross between Marie Kondo and a labelling-obsessed librarian. But let’s be real: decluttering is hard. Stuff accumulates. Closets mysteriously shrink. And somehow, we’ve all become emotionally attached to random chargers for gadgets we don’t even own anymore.
If you’re dreaming of a fresh, clean start (or thinking about selling your home this spring), it’s time to take control. Ready to laugh, cry, and probably find at least three things you forgot you owned? Let’s dive in.
1. Start Small… Because Rome Wasn’t Decluttered in a DayDon’t try to organize the whole house in one go—unless you enjoy crying into a pile of mismatched socks. Instead, pick one tiny area: a single drawer, a bookshelf, or that one “junk” basket that’s mysteriously heavier than it looks.
Pro Tip: Use the “15-Minute Rule”—set a timer, declutter until it dings, and reward yourself with a coffee. Or a cookie. Or both. Progress is progress.
2. Embrace the Three-Box Method (and Maybe a Fourth Box for Snacks)Decluttering without a plan is like skating without ice—you’re going nowhere. Grab three boxes (or bags, or bins, or an old hockey bag) and label them: Keep, Donate, Toss. Everything you touch goes into one of them. Bonus: you’ll feel like you’re starring in your own HGTV show.
Selling Soon? Pretend you’re a buyer and ask yourself: “Would this random pile of magazines make me want to buy this house?” If the answer is no, into the donate or toss box it goes.
3. Stop Organizing Things You Don’t Actually Want
Here’s a wild idea: if you don’t like something, don’t keep it. Organizing is not decluttering! You’re not obligated to hold onto that weird vase Aunt Susan gave you or the panini press you’ve used exactly once. Bless and release, my friend. You will actually feel mentally lightened.
Pro Tip for Sellers: Closets bursting with stuff are not “cozy” or “charming” to buyers—they’re just overwhelming. Edit ruthlessly. Your future self will thank you.
Seriously. If you're not Swiss, how often do you fondue?
4. The “One In, One Out” Rule: Simple, but BrutalFor every new thing that comes into your home, let one old thing go. New sweater? Bye-bye, faded hoodie with a hole in it. New kitchen gadget? See ya, avocado slicer that’s only caused heartbreak.
Make It Fun: Turn it into a game with your family. Winner gets bragging rights, and maybe first dibs on leftover holiday chocolate.
5. Clear Surfaces = Instant ZenThere’s something magical about a clear countertop, like the universe whispering, “You’ve got this.” Sweep off all the random stuff (looking at you, expired coupons and lonely soy sauce packets) and keep only the essentials.
Selling Tip: Buyers love seeing pristine surfaces—it makes them think, “Wow, I could really live here,” and not, “Wow, they have a lot of mail.”
6. Digitize the Paper ChaosIf your desk looks like a filing cabinet exploded, it’s time to go digital. Scan important documents, shred the rest, and watch as your stress levels drop along with the paper pile.
Pro Tip: Selling your home? A neatly scanned file of repair records and warranties can be a major flex for potential buyers. “Oh, here’s the water heater warranty? How thoughtful!”
7. Create a Donation Station (and Make It Fun)Dedicate a spot in your home where all the “goodbye” items go. Then, make a plan to drop them off regularly—because nothing says “fresh start” like a car full of stuff heading to a charity shop. But don't make the donation box so cute that you don't want to part with it.
Feel-Good Bonus: Giving your unused items a second life is basically a karmic hug. And hey, fewer things to dust!
8. Laugh Through the ChaosDecluttering can be emotional. You’ll find weird stuff (hello, sock from 2018), sentimental stuff (baby onesies? why are we crying?), and plain confusing stuff (does anyone know what this charger is for?). Take breaks, have snacks, and remember: the goal is progress, not perfection.
Thinking of Selling This Spring?
Decluttering isn’t just about making your space look better—it’s about making your life feel better, too. And if you’re planning to sell, a clutter-free home is basically a love letter to buyers saying, “Move in and live your best life here.”
Need help prepping your space for the market? Let’s chat. I promise not to judge your junk drawer. 😉 For as much as I would volunteer to help you declutter, I know professionals who can do this for you much better than I can.
Happy New Year, happy decluttering, and may your closets forever be organized!
If you’re dreaming of a fresh, clean start (or thinking about selling your home this spring), it’s time to take control. Ready to laugh, cry, and probably find at least three things you forgot you owned? Let’s dive in.
1. Start Small… Because Rome Wasn’t Decluttered in a DayDon’t try to organize the whole house in one go—unless you enjoy crying into a pile of mismatched socks. Instead, pick one tiny area: a single drawer, a bookshelf, or that one “junk” basket that’s mysteriously heavier than it looks.Pro Tip: Use the “15-Minute Rule”—set a timer, declutter until it dings, and reward yourself with a coffee. Or a cookie. Or both. Progress is progress.
Selling Soon? Pretend you’re a buyer and ask yourself: “Would this random pile of magazines make me want to buy this house?” If the answer is no, into the donate or toss box it goes.
Here’s a wild idea: if you don’t like something, don’t keep it. Organizing is not decluttering! You’re not obligated to hold onto that weird vase Aunt Susan gave you or the panini press you’ve used exactly once. Bless and release, my friend. You will actually feel mentally lightened.
Pro Tip for Sellers: Closets bursting with stuff are not “cozy” or “charming” to buyers—they’re just overwhelming. Edit ruthlessly. Your future self will thank you.
Seriously. If you're not Swiss, how often do you fondue?
(And if you do, I don't recommend trying to dip chicken in the cheese fondue if you're with someone who is Swiss. Trust me.)
4. The “One In, One Out” Rule: Simple, but BrutalFor every new thing that comes into your home, let one old thing go. New sweater? Bye-bye, faded hoodie with a hole in it. New kitchen gadget? See ya, avocado slicer that’s only caused heartbreak.
Make It Fun: Turn it into a game with your family. Winner gets bragging rights, and maybe first dibs on leftover holiday chocolate.
Selling Tip: Buyers love seeing pristine surfaces—it makes them think, “Wow, I could really live here,” and not, “Wow, they have a lot of mail.”
Pro Tip: Selling your home? A neatly scanned file of repair records and warranties can be a major flex for potential buyers. “Oh, here’s the water heater warranty? How thoughtful!”
Feel-Good Bonus: Giving your unused items a second life is basically a karmic hug. And hey, fewer things to dust!
Decluttering isn’t just about making your space look better—it’s about making your life feel better, too. And if you’re planning to sell, a clutter-free home is basically a love letter to buyers saying, “Move in and live your best life here.”
Need help prepping your space for the market? Let’s chat. I promise not to judge your junk drawer. 😉 For as much as I would volunteer to help you declutter, I know professionals who can do this for you much better than I can.
Happy New Year, happy decluttering, and may your closets forever be organized!