One of the biggest challenges my seller-clients face when listing their house is decluttering. What you think will take a few weekends, actually takes 8 weeks. But, clearing out the more personal items is extremely important because it allows buyers to imagine themselves living in the house.

If you’re the DIY type, check out Marie Kondo’s KonMari Method of Tidying Up, and Kondo’s new Netflix series. She gives some great tips for sorting through the years of things we all collect in our homes.

“The KonMari Method™ encourages tidying by category – not by location – beginning with clothes, then moving on to books, papers, komono (miscellaneous items), and, finally, sentimental items. Keep only those things that speak to the heart, and discard items that no longer spark joy. Thank them for their service – then let them go.”

https://konmari.com/pages/about

Try subjectively looking at all of your belongings, and sort through the ones that mean the most to you. You’ll have a much easier time packing remaining belongings, and you’ll increase space for more joy-bringing items in your new home!

“Remember, tidying up isn’t about getting rid of stuff. It is about creating an environment that sparks joy and improves your quality of life.”

When selling your house, first impressions matter! Before the photographer take photos for your listing, tour your home with fresh eyes and look for any imperfections that a buyer might notice. Make a list and prioritize projects.

I suggest packing up more sentimental items so you know where they all are. That way, they are safe during open houses and showing appointments. This also cuts down on the amount of packing you need to do right before you move. A win-win!

I am totally guilty of organizing room-by-room, instead of by category. I’m going to give The KonMari Method™ a try. How about you? Have you tried it? I’d love to hear your tips and tricks, too!

Best,

Michelle