From A Woman's Perspective: October 17th "Decluttering Is the Best Thing You Can Do to Prepare for an Upcoming Sale"

Decluttering Is the Best Thing You Can Do to Prepare for an Upcoming Sale

If you’re thinking about selling your home and moving to something smaller — perhaps a condo, bungalow, or retirement community — there’s one thing that will make the process easier, faster, and more profitable: decluttering.

Yes, it’s true — of all the steps you can take before listing your home, decluttering gives you the biggest return for your effort. It costs little to nothing, it instantly improves how your home shows, and it helps you emotionally prepare for your next chapter.

Let’s talk about why decluttering matters so much, what makes it challenging, and how to make it simpler — even if you’ve lived in your home for decades.

1. Why Decluttering Matters So Much

Wen buyers walk through your home, they’re not just looking at the rooms — they’re imagining their life there. The more open, organized, and inviting your space feels, the easier it is for them to picture themselves in it.

A home that feels light and spacious also photographs better. In today’s market, first impressions are made online, and listings with bright, uncluttered photos draw more showings and higher offers.

Even more importantly, decluttering helps you. It’s the first step in transitioning from “this is my home” to “this is a property I’m preparing to sell.” It’s the bridge between memories and new beginnings.

Think of decluttering as emotional preparation as much as physical preparation. Each box you sort, each drawer you tidy, brings you closer to your next chapter — one that’s simpler, lighter, and easier to manage.

2. What Makes Decluttering So Hard

Let’s be honest — decluttering isn’t easy, especially when you’ve lived in a home for many years. Every item has a story. You remember where it came from, who gave it to you, or when you last used it.

And if you’ve raised a family, downsizing often means facing decades of belongings: photo albums, keepsakes, and the “just in case” items that fill basements, garages, and spare rooms.

It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed or unsure of where to begin. Many of my clients tell me they “just can’t get started” — not because they’re unwilling, but because the task feels too big to tackle.

That’s why it helps to have a plan.

3. How to Make Decluttering Easier

The good news? Decluttering doesn’t have to mean turning your whole house upside down. You don’t need to do it all at once. You simply need a clear, step-by-step approach that keeps you focused and moving forward.

Here are a few simple strategies that work beautifully for most homeowners:

• Start small. Pick one drawer, one shelf, or one closet. You’ll be amazed how motivating it feels to complete a small space.
   
• Set a timer. Even 25 minutes a day adds up quickly. When the timer goes off, you stop — no guilt, no exhaustion.
   
• Use categories, not rooms. For example, gather all your shoes or all your books and decide what to keep. Seeing the quantity helps you make clearer decisions.
• Ask good questions. “Do I love it?” “Do I use it?” “Would I buy it again today?” If the answer is no, it may be time to let it go.
   
• Don’t declutter sentimental items first. Start with easy wins like clothing or kitchenware. Once you’ve built momentum, you’ll have more confidence to tackle the emotional pieces.
   

If you’d like more structure, I’ve created a free workbook called The Decluttering Battle Plan — it teaches my simple five-step strategy that makes the whole process less overwhelming and more rewarding. (I’ll tell you how to get your copy in just a moment.)

4. You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

If you’ve tried decluttering before and felt defeated, please know you’re not alone — and you don’t have to do it alone this time.

That’s why I offer several ways to make this process easier and more encouraging:

1. Request your free copy of The Decluttering Battle Plan workbook. It walks you through a clear five-step strategy and includes worksheets to track your progress.
    
2. Join our “30-Day Decluttering Challenge.” Each day, you’ll receive a short email with one realistic, motivating task. In just a month, you’ll be amazed by what you’ve accomplished.
    
3. Book a personal downsizing consultation. We’ll talk about your goals, your timeline, and how to prepare your home so it sells faster and for the best possible price — all while reducing stress.
    

Whether you choose one or all three, each option is designed to help you take action and feel supported every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

Decluttering may feel like an uphill climb, but it’s truly the most impactful thing you can do to prepare for selling your home. It makes your property shine, simplifies your move, and sets the stage for the next phase of your life.

So start small. Stay consistent. And remember — every drawer you clear, every box you donate, every decision you make brings you closer to that lighter, more peaceful lifestyle you’ve been imagining.

Your future home — and your future self — will thank you for it.

You’ve spent years creating a beautiful home. Now it’s time to simplify, refresh, and make space for what’s next.

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