Potential sellers must be 100% aware that homes that are cluttered and unorganized will come off as uninviting and congested! A potentially spacious home can be reduce to a mass of cramped space due to excessive clutter. Completely de-cluttering your home prior to showing it is a MUST. Keep in mind, de-cluttering has nothing to do with cleaning. So your home may be clean, but still clutted. Highlighting space and excellent storage are strong points in showing a home. Don’t let the great features in your home be camouflaged by ugly clutter!
There effective solutions for conquering clutter before you sell:
To begin the process of de-cluttering, the safest bet is to start with one room. Choosing one room makes the process of monitoring results easier. The ability to enjoy the results of one completed room, far out weighs the task of struggling to finish numerous rooms simultaneously.
After a room is chosen, start off with doing what can be called a “trial run”. Armed with several large plastic bags and a open mind, canvas the entire and throw away any items that can be trashed. This can include expired medications, expired canned goods, junk and outdated mail (always shred) , old magazines, newspapers or catalogs.
Now that the trash is removed, the second step is to determine what to donated or sell. Having a friend, relative or a Professional Organizer handy for this task can be helpful. Considering a second opinion when determining what not to keep is invaluable. Start off by sorting and categorizing all like items into groups. Determine which items are duplicates and/or rarely used. A common rule of thumb is the “Twelve Month Rule”. An item that hasn’t been used or worn in a twelve months or more should be removed. Secondly, decide what items are functional, decorative, or neither. Functional items are things that are in frequent use. Decorative items are enjoyable pieces that are used for decoration. Things that are neither decorative or functional should be properly stored, donated or sold. Allowing what were once prized possessions to be used and enjoyed by others through donating to local charities and organizations can be rewarding and meaningful. Also selling items via yard sells, internet transactions, and/or auction dealers can be lucrative and worthwhile in many cases.
Now that the room is free of all unwanted items, the organizing begins. The final step to assigned a “home” for everything . This step deals with proper storage and functional space management. Label and create workable storage systems that are tailored to personal preference and accessible. Choose storage items that are clear, light weight and easy to handle. Once every item has a “home”, effective space assignment is key. The goal is to create a room that is both visually appealing and functional. Rising to the challenge de-cluttering and organizing a chaotic room will transform it into a calm and welcoming haven .
Happy Selling! :)
ClutterFree specializes in full service home and office de-cluttering and organizing. ClutterFree Professional Organizers assist our clients in sorting and consolidating closets, clothing, basements, garages, bedrooms, paperwork…etc. We also handle all donation and trash removals. 1-866-285-1891 www.clutterfreehomes.com
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Clutter = Bad Energy?
When hearing the word “energy” used in reference to anything other than electricity, power drinks and physical ability, it can sometimes take on an eccentric connotation. In my mind, I picture a lady in gypsy garb, holding dangling crystals saying, “Touch this and feeeeel the energy of past lives in this room!” Maybe that’s just my loopy imagination. Nevertheless, considering what types of energy or vibes that are associated with residential clutter is neither super spiritual nor spooky. Quite the opposite, evaluating the clutter in your home and determining what type of energy it is releasing is actually logical and important to consider.
The fact is, some types of residential clutter are direct causes of anxiety, depression, anger and emotional instability. Case in point, a client called me in to do her basement. Now this lady was the epitome of a loving wife and stepmother. She explained to me that her basement was overwhelming, cluttered and distressing. Even worse, her guest frequently used the basement entrance. She definitely needed my services. We came up with a plan and began our session. About midway into the project, I came across bags and boxes of Christmas decorations, cooking ware, and a few personal items. I asked, “Ok what about this stuff? Donate or keep?” Immediately, upon the sight of those items, my cheerful and easy going client became aggravated and flustered. “That belongs to my husband’s first wife and I don’t know what I should do with it,” she revealed. Right at that moment, I pulled Professional Organizer rank and told her that the ex-wife’s things had to go immediately. While it was nothing against the ex-wife, a huge part of why she felt stressed when coming into the basement had to do with holding on to the ex-wife’s clutter. Why is this? The ex-wife’s personal affects and possessions still had a presence in the home. Thus, the ex-wife’s energy and reminders of her past role as “wife” in the home were in direct conflict with my client’s presence. With a new found sense of exuberance and liberty, my client began to slam the old ornaments, nick-nacks, and casserole dishes into the donation bag with vigor! She had a release that day for sure.
Bottom line: It is an absolute “no-no” to have past possessions from old relationships, bad memories or past negative lifestyles in your living space. For instance, if you are an ex-smoker who kicked the habit, then get rid of the old ash trays and other reminders of your smoking past. Perhaps you are trying to get over an ex-lover. Remove all the old pictures, souvenirs from romantic getaways, letters, cards or any other reminders of that past time and relationship.
There is an energetic pull oozing out some of the seemingly meaningless items in your home. Getting rid of unnecessary clutter is a critical step in securing comfort and peace.
Ok ready to de-clutter and get rid of things that scream NEGATIVE ENERGY? Here are 3 pertinent tips to get you started:
Tip One: No matter what it is, get rid of things that are connected to past romantic relationships or unhappy experiences. Here are some examples: If you broke your leg a few years back, toss the old crutches. If it was “his” old couch – sell it!
Tip Two: Losing a loved one and not being able to let go. This is a sensitive issue that I have dealt with a lot with clients who have taken on too much clutter “inherited” from a deceased family member. Consider this, by donating or giving away things belonging to the belated, those things will live on through someone else. However, in your home, the constant abundance of reminders of the dead will create “dead” energy in your home. By all means, it is perfectly acceptable to have a few keepsakes in remembrance of those who are gone. Just remember not to let the belongings of the deceased consume too much space. Your home is a place for the living, not the dead.
Tip Three: Don’t allow your home to become a storage facility for non-residents. An occasional favor to store friends or relatives things for a few weeks is acceptable. However, storing someone else’s things indefinitely will create clutter and add excess “weight” to your living space. If it doesn’t belong to you or anyone living in your home – get it out!
Many times, in order to connect to something new and fulfilling in life, you have to first disconnect from past times and old seasons. Surround yourself with positive things and strive to live in a peaceful atmosphere. Get rid of that clutter!
Live on the east coast? Bringing in an experience Professional Organizer may be the answer. ClutterFree specializes in full service home and office de-cluttering and organizing. ClutterFree Professional Organizers assist our clients in sorting and consolidating closets, clothing, basements, garages, bedrooms, paperwork…etc. We also handle all donation and trash removals. www.clutterfreehomes.com Call today for a free quote 1-866-285-1891.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
A Cluttered Bedroom is NOT Sexy!
Ok this needs to be said – Get that mess out of your bedroom before you get your groove on! What can dampen a sexy mood faster than seeing a pink My Little Pony starring at you just as you’re about to… I’m sure you get the picture. Even worse, right when it’s starting to warm up between the sheets, you are fighting to ignore that annoying “thing” that keeps poking you in the back. Opps! Its that blue shoe you were looking for this morning. Let me say this as plainly as possible: Cluttered bedrooms are a TURN OFF!
I can’t begin to tell you how many men I have calling me in total disgust about their bedrooms. They have had it with the toys, papers, clothing, books and whatever else taking over the love nest. In essence, they are saying, “ Tamme pimp my bedroom!” (I had to throw that line in there for my fellow MTV 35 and under crowd.) In other words , the popular request for many of my married male clients are related to bedroom clutter. Oh, and then there are my single female clients. Whom have finally gotten a clue that inviting that handsome stallion into a ridiculously cluttered bedroom to get “a little more comfortable” may be wrong move. You’ve guest it, he normally doesn’t rush to call back the next day.
The key point to remember is that setting the right mood is everything. We’ve all heard it before; men are visual creatures. So walking into a room that is inviting, organized and cozy is a sexy turn on. By the way, here’s a newsflash for all those cluttered men out there who may think that I am exclusively talking to the women. News flash: Men get that cluttered, stinky, over run with paper and dirty dishes bachelor’s pad together! Trust me men, you may think that she’s enjoying the foreplay but she’s really thinking, “Yuck, I can only imagine what’s on these sheets!” So the following steps are for all of those who are dealing with that dreaded inexcusable – bedroom clutter.
Step #1: Get rid of the kids stuff. Ban all kids toys, video games, stuffed animals, clothing ..etc. What’s even more scary is that some of you have a bedroom full of dusty stuffed animals and dolls but you don’t even have children! Turn off! The bedroom must look mature and sophisticated at all times.
Step #2: Is it an office or a bedroom? Is it a library or a bedroom? Granted, some paper work and books are fine in bedrooms. However, if it seems that the paperwork is taking over and the books are now the focal point of the room, then downsizing is a must. Here is a trick: Take a look at your bedroom from entrance doorway. What do you see first? If it’s a bunch a paperwork, bills, magazines, circulars and books then there is a problem.
Step #3: Spruce up your bed. After investing in nice linen, keep the bed made. Obviously, making the bed everyday, will force even the most disorganized to at least clear off the bed. A clear and clutter-less bed is always a good thing to have ready when the romance begins.
Step #4: Clear off the dressers, night stands and armoires in your bedroom. An easy fix is have small drop baskets, holders, or decorative boxes that go with the décor of your room.
Step #5: Set the tone of the bedroom. Adding candles, soothing aroma therapy devices, artwork and decorative pieces are always great. Bet remember – less is more. Don’t over do it.
In a nutshell, your bedroom should be your sanctuary. A place of rest, relaxation and pleasure. Too much bedroom clutter can be loud and distracting. Get rid of it for once and for all.
Live on the east coast? Bringing in an experience Professional Organizer is the solution. ClutterFree specializes in full service home and office de-cluttering and organizing. ClutterFree Professional Organizers assist our clients in sorting and consolidating closets, clothing, basements, garages, bedrooms, paperwork…etc. We also handle all donation and trash removals. www.clutterfreehomes.com Call today for a free quote 1-866-285-1891.
I can’t begin to tell you how many men I have calling me in total disgust about their bedrooms. They have had it with the toys, papers, clothing, books and whatever else taking over the love nest. In essence, they are saying, “ Tamme pimp my bedroom!” (I had to throw that line in there for my fellow MTV 35 and under crowd.) In other words , the popular request for many of my married male clients are related to bedroom clutter. Oh, and then there are my single female clients. Whom have finally gotten a clue that inviting that handsome stallion into a ridiculously cluttered bedroom to get “a little more comfortable” may be wrong move. You’ve guest it, he normally doesn’t rush to call back the next day.
The key point to remember is that setting the right mood is everything. We’ve all heard it before; men are visual creatures. So walking into a room that is inviting, organized and cozy is a sexy turn on. By the way, here’s a newsflash for all those cluttered men out there who may think that I am exclusively talking to the women. News flash: Men get that cluttered, stinky, over run with paper and dirty dishes bachelor’s pad together! Trust me men, you may think that she’s enjoying the foreplay but she’s really thinking, “Yuck, I can only imagine what’s on these sheets!” So the following steps are for all of those who are dealing with that dreaded inexcusable – bedroom clutter.
Step #1: Get rid of the kids stuff. Ban all kids toys, video games, stuffed animals, clothing ..etc. What’s even more scary is that some of you have a bedroom full of dusty stuffed animals and dolls but you don’t even have children! Turn off! The bedroom must look mature and sophisticated at all times.
Step #2: Is it an office or a bedroom? Is it a library or a bedroom? Granted, some paper work and books are fine in bedrooms. However, if it seems that the paperwork is taking over and the books are now the focal point of the room, then downsizing is a must. Here is a trick: Take a look at your bedroom from entrance doorway. What do you see first? If it’s a bunch a paperwork, bills, magazines, circulars and books then there is a problem.
Step #3: Spruce up your bed. After investing in nice linen, keep the bed made. Obviously, making the bed everyday, will force even the most disorganized to at least clear off the bed. A clear and clutter-less bed is always a good thing to have ready when the romance begins.
Step #4: Clear off the dressers, night stands and armoires in your bedroom. An easy fix is have small drop baskets, holders, or decorative boxes that go with the décor of your room.
Step #5: Set the tone of the bedroom. Adding candles, soothing aroma therapy devices, artwork and decorative pieces are always great. Bet remember – less is more. Don’t over do it.
In a nutshell, your bedroom should be your sanctuary. A place of rest, relaxation and pleasure. Too much bedroom clutter can be loud and distracting. Get rid of it for once and for all.
Live on the east coast? Bringing in an experience Professional Organizer is the solution. ClutterFree specializes in full service home and office de-cluttering and organizing. ClutterFree Professional Organizers assist our clients in sorting and consolidating closets, clothing, basements, garages, bedrooms, paperwork…etc. We also handle all donation and trash removals. www.clutterfreehomes.com Call today for a free quote 1-866-285-1891.
Monday, October 1, 2007
Why Are We Cluttered?
Before I attempt to give any reasons on the causes of residential clutter, let me first say that clutter issues are quite common. However, when the clutter has gotten out of control, feelings of anxiety, nervousness, unease, and embarrassment set in. At that point, a life change is a must. Having too much clutter can reduce a space that was once intended to be a place of calm, peace and relaxation into an area that is now cramped and in total disarray.
One of the chief culprits of clutter in the American homes is excessive shopping. Let face it, having access to spending money is the U.S. is easier than ever before. Americans use 1.2 billion credit cards and carry an average total of $8,562 in consumer debt. Fifteen percent of households have home equity loans and credit lines, too. Meanwhile, we are purchasing more than what we will ever need, use or enjoy. At the same time, we are not letting enough of our useless possessions go.
An average of 80% of home have some sort of clutter in it. Psychologists estimate that 3 million Americans never throw anything out. We have all come from ancient deribritives of hunters and gatherers. But here is the catch - the opportunities to acquire or "gather" have skyrocketed ! The old corner store once stocked fewer than 1,000 items. Today, a Wal-Mart SuperCenter covers a quarter-million square feet -- that's nearly six acres -- and carries 130,000 products. If you can't make it to the store, merchandisers will even bring it to your fingertips! Online, 49 million people order $7 billion in merchandise annually from Amazon.com. EBay auctioned possessions worth $34.2 billion last year. The ability to acquire too much STUFF is mind boggling.
So here is a tip that will surely work: When you purchase an item, make an honest attempt to get rid of a like item in that category. For example: if you purchase a cute blue sweater, then get rid of that ugly red Christmas sweater that you haven't worn in 3 years!
www.clutterfreehomes.com
One of the chief culprits of clutter in the American homes is excessive shopping. Let face it, having access to spending money is the U.S. is easier than ever before. Americans use 1.2 billion credit cards and carry an average total of $8,562 in consumer debt. Fifteen percent of households have home equity loans and credit lines, too. Meanwhile, we are purchasing more than what we will ever need, use or enjoy. At the same time, we are not letting enough of our useless possessions go.
An average of 80% of home have some sort of clutter in it. Psychologists estimate that 3 million Americans never throw anything out. We have all come from ancient deribritives of hunters and gatherers. But here is the catch - the opportunities to acquire or "gather" have skyrocketed ! The old corner store once stocked fewer than 1,000 items. Today, a Wal-Mart SuperCenter covers a quarter-million square feet -- that's nearly six acres -- and carries 130,000 products. If you can't make it to the store, merchandisers will even bring it to your fingertips! Online, 49 million people order $7 billion in merchandise annually from Amazon.com. EBay auctioned possessions worth $34.2 billion last year. The ability to acquire too much STUFF is mind boggling.
So here is a tip that will surely work: When you purchase an item, make an honest attempt to get rid of a like item in that category. For example: if you purchase a cute blue sweater, then get rid of that ugly red Christmas sweater that you haven't worn in 3 years!
www.clutterfreehomes.com
Monday, September 17, 2007
Tamme's Top 5 Rules on Avoiding Clutter
Rule #1: Immediately get rid of all cardboard boxes in your home. Substitute with clear storage boxes.
Rule #2: Treat junk mail like the plague. Never let it enter your home. Ditch it at the door.
Rule #3: No bedroom clutter! Get the toys, paperwork, and storage out.
Rule #4: Don’t forget the refrigerator. Get rid of all expired frozen goods, old leftovers…etc.
Rule #5: Get other housemates involved in being clutter free.
Rule #2: Treat junk mail like the plague. Never let it enter your home. Ditch it at the door.
Rule #3: No bedroom clutter! Get the toys, paperwork, and storage out.
Rule #4: Don’t forget the refrigerator. Get rid of all expired frozen goods, old leftovers…etc.
Rule #5: Get other housemates involved in being clutter free.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
