Blog Layout

Mar 24, 2016

Decluttering Checklist

Ready to start decluttering your home but don’t know where to start? Try this quick list:

 

  • VHS movies, CDs and other outdated technology. Nostalgic, maybe. Clutter? Definitely. Either have these items converted into digital formats, or get rid of them.
  • Old baby gear. Most cribs and car seats, for example, have expiration dates or dates the manufacturers recommend not using the item any longer for safety reasons. Wait for Babies R’ Us’ trade in events (twice per year) and get 25% off a new item, or, simply, take these items to a recycling center.
  • Unused or old spices. If you open the jar lid and you don’t smell the spice, chances are it’s time to pitch it. Spices generally have a two year shelf life, so if you have a bunch of jars in your cabinet, get rid of what’s not getting used.
  • Stuff that’s not yours. You’d be surprised how much stuff one can accumulate. Do you have friends or family members who continually leave things in your home? Or perhaps you borrow and forget to return? Designate a bin for other people’s stuff and empty it as often as possible.
  • Random appliances. Do you like to collect those cakepop, Panini, empanada, etc. makers but never use them? Perhaps a large plastic bin can be filled and stored in the basement, or maybe these items are best donated to friends who would find better use for them.

Still having trouble figuring out what to do with some of your stuff? Here are a few common obstacles while decluttering and some tips on how to work through them:

  • It was expensive. You may have paid a lot of money for something, but if it’s not getting used, then it’s taking up valuable space in your life. While decluttering, try not to think about selling these items. It’s more than likely that you will not get back enough of what you invested to take the sting of getting rid of the item.
  • It was a gift. Again, if it’s not getting used then it’s taking up space. The sheer presence of that item might actually make you feel guilty for not using it. Consider donating these items to those who will be able to enjoy them more than yourself.
  • It might be something I need later. This thought comes up often. From overbuying consumables or even storing furniture for the 50+ person party you’ll probably never have. And if you’ve ever said “I’m not sure what it is, but I might need it,” – chances are you won’t. Some like to live by the general rule of: “if I haven’t used it in 2 years, it’s out of here.”
  • It was an heirloom. This is likely the trickiest circumstance to overcome. Sentimental value often overtakes logical usability. If what you’re holding onto is taking up so much space that you can’t even enjoy the memories, perhaps find a new way to remember loved ones is best. 

Contact Us

30 Oct, 2023
The Benefits of Custom Home Construction: Why Personalization Matters
18 Jul, 2023
Congratulations on building your new home! Now that you have your dream home, it's essential to take proper care of it to ensure it stays in top shape for years to come. Regular home maintenance not only helps preserve the aesthetics but also prevents costly repairs down the line. In this blog post, we'll provide you with five examples of essential home maintenance tasks to help you keep your new home in pristine condition.
replica of a house sitting on a kitchen table with keys next to it
01 May, 2023
Spring is typically a busy time for the real estate market, and 2023 is no exception. However, there are some key trends that are shaping the market and making it an interesting time for buyers and sellers alike. Here are three key points to keep in mind about the spring real estate market.
2022 Home for the Holidays on a holiday tree background
By Rachel Valerio 15 Nov, 2022
2022 Home for the Holidays Promotion
3 Reasons to Build a Home This Fall
By Rachel Valerio 08 Nov, 2022
3 Reasons to Build a Home This Fall
6 Fall Home Decor Trends of 2022
By Rachel Valerio 29 Sep, 2022
Fall is here, with leaves starting to turn, cool winds blowing, and that home decorating itch that comes for many homeowners during the changing of the seasons. With endless styling options to use in your home, we’ve compiled a list of six fall home decor trends that interior designers are using in 2022.
By Morgan Davis 12 Apr, 2022
Achieving Your Homeownership Goals Using Your Tax Refund
By Morgan Davis 05 Apr, 2022
Where are Mortgage Rates Headed Next?
By Morgan Davis 23 Mar, 2022
Helpful Terms for Homebuyers
By Morgan Davis 02 Mar, 2022
Why you should sell your home today
Show More
Share by: