It is understandably inconvenient to live in your home without the essentials that you need on a daily basis. However, any extra furniture or unnecessary items — like books, magazine and hobby supplies — all add weight and visual distraction to a room. The more spacious your home appears, the more appeal to potential buyers it has. Minimize as much as you can without compromising your lifestyle. You want the home shopper to SEE what your home has to offer, not to guess.
MAKE A PLAN
• List each room of the house, noting the amount of clutter in each room, including closets. • Declutter rooms one at a time by starting with the rooms needing the least amount of work and moving through to the rooms needing the most work. • Clear out each room, keeping only essential items. • Donate or consign clothes, décor, toys, and other items you no longer use. If you need help with finding places that are picking up clothing or furniture I will be happy to provide assistance. • Box up possessions that you want to keep but don’t currently use, and put them in storage. • Remind yourself to keep surfaces clean and clear.
ROOM-BY-ROOM LIST:
• Kitchen — Counters should be clear, with only three or four essential items. All towels, dishrags, and potholders should be kept out of sight. Soaps and cleaners should be stored under the sink. Rarely used small appliances can be packed and put in storage. Pack away teacups, serving dishes, and platters if you normally showcase them. If you
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