Bernie Stephan, Eco Realty - Managing the Real Estate in a Divorce

Keep only essential items in each space.

Donate or discard clothes, décor, and other items you no longer use. Pack up non-essential belongings and store them off-site if possible.

Keep surfaces clean and uncluttered throughout the home.

ROOM-BY-ROOM DECLUTTERING GUIDE

Kitchen – Keep only three or four essential items on countertops. Store dish towels, cleaning supplies, and small appliances out of sight. If you showcase decorative shelving, limit display items. Remove pest control traps or poison from the pantry and cabinets. Appliances should not be used as extra storage—buyers will check inside ovens and microwaves. Bathrooms – Remove everything from cabinets and drawers. Keep only necessary items and store prescription medications securely. Jewelry, perfumes, and personal products should be stored away. The goal is to make the bathroom look unused and spa-like. Bedrooms – Showcase closet space by clearing out at least 50% of your wardrobe. Stick to the rule: if you haven’t worn it in a year, donate it. Buyers want ample closet space, and crammed closets make storage look insufficient. Dining Areas – Remove clutter from all flat surfaces, leaving only subtle décor, like a vase of flowers. Keep furniture polished and dust-free. Living Areas – Clear away books, magazines, remote controls, and excess pillows and throws. Store gaming consoles,

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