Selling Your Home? Begin with Decluttering

When you think about selling your home, your first thought might be fixing up the yard, painting walls, or taking great photos. But before all that, there’s one step that makes the biggest difference: decluttering.

Decluttering is free, and you can do it early. Even if you don’t have a lot of stuff, living in one place for years means things pile up. Clearing it out makes moving easier, saves money, and reduces stress.

Let’s walk through why decluttering matters, how to do it, and some tips to make the process easier.

Why Decluttering Matters When Selling a Home

When buyers walk in, they want to picture themselves living there. That’s hard to do if your counters are full, closets are overflowing, or every wall has personal items.

• A clutter-free home looks larger.

• Clean spaces help buyers focus on the house, not distractions.

• Decluttering makes photos stand out online.

Think about this: if two homes are the same size and price, but one feels open and tidy while the other feels crowded, which one do you think buyers will remember?

How to Declutter the Easy Way

Step 1: Start with the Easy Wins

Decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with the spots you use daily.

• Kitchen counters – Put away small appliances, spices, and mail.

• Bathroom sinks – Store extra soaps, lotions, and toothbrushes.

• Living room – Remove extra pillows, blankets, and knick-knacks.

These small changes instantly make your home feel more open. Imagine a buyer walks into your kitchen. Instead of focusing on how much counter space you have, they see the coffee maker, toaster, mixer, and stack of mail. Now imagine that same kitchen with clear counters and just a small plant or bowl of fruit. Which one shows off the home better?

Step 2: Tackle Closets and Storage

Buyers will open closets. If they’re stuffed full, it sends a message: not enough space. You want closets that look roomy and organized.

• Pack out-of-season clothes into boxes.

• Use bins or baskets to group smaller items.

• Leave extra space on shelves and rods.

If you don’t need something in the next few months, pack it up now. You’re moving anyway, so think of this as a head start.

Step 3: Depersonalize Your Space

Family photos, kids’ artwork, and unique collections are part of your life, but they make it harder for buyers to picture themselves living there.

You don’t need bare walls, but choose simple, neutral decor. Replace personal photos with artwork or mirrors. A few tasteful pieces can still make the home feel warm without being distracting.

Step 4: Go Room by Room

Take decluttering step by step.

• Bedrooms – Keep nightstands clear. Store extra clothes and shoes.

• Dining room – Remove table clutter and keep the table clean.

• Home office – Hide cords, papers, and bulky office supplies.

• Garage – Organize tools and clear the floor.

Walking through each room with “buyer’s eyes” helps you see what stands out.

Tips for Decluttering

Here are some practical ways to make decluttering easier:

1. Use the three-box rule: Keep, Donate, Trash. Every item should go into one of these boxes.

2. Set a timer: Work in 30-minute chunks so it doesn’t feel overwhelming.

3. Rent a storage unit: If you have big furniture or extra boxes, moving them out can make your home look more spacious.

4. Ask for another opinion: A friend or your real estate agent can walk through and point out areas that still feel crowded.

5. Think like a buyer: Stand at the entryway of each room. Does it feel inviting?

Decluttering Before Selling = More Value

Decluttering isn’t just about making your home look nice. It can actually increase the value of your home. A well-presented home often sells faster and for more money.

Buyers don’t want to imagine how the house could look. They want to see it now. Decluttering gives them that vision.

Ready to Sell? Start Today

If you’re thinking about selling your home, don’t wait until the last minute. Start decluttering now. Work one room at a time, and give yourself plenty of time before photos and showings.

Remember: a buyer isn’t just buying your house. They’re buying the space, the light, and the feeling it gives them. Decluttering is the fastest way to make sure they see all of that.

So grab a box, start small, and give buyers the fresh, open space they’re looking for.