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The Art of Decluttering When Selling Your Home: Six Essential Tips

October 8, 2024

Selling a home is an exciting milestone, but it comes with its share of preparation, especially when it comes to making your house appealing to potential buyers. One of the most important steps in this process is decluttering. While your home might be filled with meaningful items, it’s essential to remember that not everyone shares the same taste or style. A clean, decluttered home allows buyers to better visualize themselves living in the space and helps your home shine said author Marie Kondo, and her article on decluttering. 


If decluttering feels overwhelming or you’d prefer to sell your house "as-is," Family Shepherd offers an option to take the property off your hands quickly, including all the stuff inside. Family Shepherd ensures much of the repurposed items will go to social service organizations in Kansas City that are in need. 


Exploring why decluttering is key when selling a house and how to get started with six essential tips.


 1. Start with the Biggest Items

The largest pieces of furniture can often dominate a room, making spaces feel cramped and cluttered. However, leaving essential furniture like a couch, dining table, or bed helps buyers visualize how to arrange their belongings. If the room feels crowded, consider removing extra furniture pieces like side tables, chairs, or oversized items that shrink the appearance of your space. Create clear pathways for people to walk around and experience the flow of your home.


 2. Clear Out Personal Items

Family photos, memorabilia, and personal collections may hold sentimental value to you, but they can make it harder for potential buyers to imagine themselves living in your space. Pack away these items and replace them with neutral décor that appeals to a broader audience. This simple step can make a big difference in how your home is perceived.


A garage that is packed to the rim with stuff in a house for sale

 3. Declutter Storage Spaces

Closets, pantries, and garages are key selling points in any home. Buyers want to know how much storage they’ll have, and an overflowing closet gives the impression of limited space. Go through these areas and remove items that aren’t necessary. Organize what’s left neatly to show that there’s plenty of room for buyers to store their belongings.


 4. Minimize Decor

A minimalist approach to decorating helps create a more open and airy feel in your home. Remove excess knick-knacks, large collections, and unnecessary decorations. Limit surfaces like countertops, shelves, and mantels to just a few tasteful items. The goal is to enhance the space without overwhelming it.


 5. Keep the Kitchen and Bathrooms Tidy

These are two of the most important rooms in any home, and they should feel clean and spacious. Clear off countertops in the kitchen by putting away appliances, cutting boards, and other items that don’t need to be on display. In bathrooms, remove clutter like extra toiletries, towels, and decorative items. A fresh, simple look will appeal to buyers and make these spaces look larger.


 6. Don’t Forget the Outdoor Areas

Your front yard, backyard, and any outdoor spaces are the first things potential buyers will see. Declutter your patio, porch, or deck by removing unnecessary furniture or decorations. Trim back overgrown plants and ensure walkways are clear to make your home’s exterior inviting and easy to navigate.


 What If You Want to Sell As-Is?


If you’re short on time, overwhelmed by the decluttering process, or simply want to move on without the hassle of cleaning out your home, Family Shepherd is here to help. We buy homes in any condition and will take care of all the stuff left behind. From furniture to personal items, much of it will be repurposed and donated to social service organizations in Kansas City, helping those in need. It's a great option if you’re looking for a fast and easy solution without the stress of decluttering.


Selling a home doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Whether you take on the decluttering process yourself or leave it to Family Shepherd, simplifying your space can make a huge difference in attracting potential buyers and getting a great offer. See our GET AN OFFER page here for more details on how we can help!


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