You've Got Stuff

If you’ve lived in your home for 10 or more years you have STUFF. How do you clear out many years or even a lifetime of stuff you no longer want or need?

I know that question. When I downsized a few years ago I thought I’d have a few extra things to donate or sell because I regularly clear out. Right?

Not really. I found tubs of baby garments seasoned with permanent spit-up stains, years of faded holiday decorations and even clothing last worn prior to the birth of my first child in 1995. Each time I thought I'd gotten to everything, I found more.

Here’s the most important thing I learned on the road to a successful downsizing: You must become ruthless with your stuff.

Here’s what else I learned:

• Yard or garage sales are great for moving along some of your things.

• It may be easier and financially advantageous to donate your things to thrift shops, Habitat ReUse or TROSA than to spend the time and energy to hold a yard sale. Habitat and TROSA pick up large items. Call them!

• We all have stuff we don’t want and no one else wants it either. Seriously. This is especially true if it’s chipped, stained or faded. Dump it.

• Having a dumpster in your drive for a few days will absolutely prevent you from winning neighbor of the year honors but it sure makes clearing out fast and a lot easier. It’s almost magic. A dumpster is hauled onto your drive, you have a few days to fill it and then it’s magically hauled away. You’ll fill that thing in a day, really. Always order the larger dumpster, you’ll need it.

• Take everything out of each closet. EVERYTHING. Paint the closet. Then return only the items you wear or use now. Donate or toss the rest. Painting closets the color of the room (not white) makes your home feel and look richer. Buyers look in your closets – make them neat and beautiful!

• Hire help. A couple 19-year-olds can move furniture, carry away stuff, load the dumpster and pack boxes quickly. This will save your back, ease your mind and cost less than you think.

#Clutter #Moving