organize

July 9 2015

De-Clutter by Category

I typically tell clients to take a room by room approach to organizing or de-cluttering. However, there are exceptions. The other day, I was working with Marie. She loved her books, and it seemed they were as one would imagine spread out among several bookshelves in multiple rooms and a few piles lurked on the floor next to furniture. We were trying to make space on the bookshelves for other items that needed a “home” so we needed to sort through books and start a donate pile.

When you focus on one category whether clothes, vases, Tupperware or books, it is helpful to see in entirety what you have in order to determine what can be donated or given to a friend. You may find you have 12 pairs of similar black pants among your closet and the guestroom closet and a few old pairs that have been sent to the attic. If I were to ask you initially, you may find yourself telling me you have 5 pairs of black pants.More

January 28 2015

Snow Days…a perfect time to organize.

Organizing

Moving up from label makers... — Moving up from label makers…

It looks like most of us survived the blizzard better than expected, and we were very happy we didn’t lose power! Between shoveling and snow blowing, it was a perfect day to get organized and deal with some household projects. Deb has a really big driveway so she spent a lot of the day behind the snow blower, and I enjoyed catching up on computer work and cleaning up some of my computer files and contact information. We have often shared tips on organizing, and somehow a snow day is an organizer’s dream because it means life comes to a halt and one actually has time to spend at home with no guilt, no other commitments, and can hopefully tackle some projects. Here are our top 5 tips:

Refrain from going crazy on Amazon. The stores are counting on you to sit and buy, buy, buy! And, if you can’t resist, we did come across the Ebates site which gives you discounts for on-line purchases. We haven’t tried it out yet, but we did sign up. You might as well save some money if you are spending it!
Go through your paperwork. A recent NAPO survey found that 29% of Americans consider their home office and den to be the most disorganized room in their home, followed by the master bedroom and kitchen. Tackle those piles of paper clutter. Spend an hour or two to pay bills and FILE or shred. While you are at it, start thinking about organizing receipts and paperwork for taxes. You’ll be amazed at how accomplished you’ll feel and may be inspired to keep going.
If office paperwork is not your nemesis, start some donation piles. Choose an area in your home that really bothers you, and start de-cluttering. Call Salvation Army or some other charitable organization and schedule a pick-up. We like Salvation Army because unlike others, they don’t require you to leave items curbside. However, most of the donation companies need advance notice so get on their list now.
Yes, of course the shoveling and snow blowing are a necessary evil waiting for you. Just think of it as good exercise.
Enjoy the change of pace and take a nap!

April 30 2013

Organize for Home Sale

Uncategorized

The other day while standing on the sidelines watching my daughter play lacrosse, a friend asked how the business was going. When I replied, she commented “so people really let you go through their stuff?” My resounding answer was “Yes, why not? They have other priorities. We are in business to help our clients organize their belongings and lives so they can have time to enjoy the activities they actually want to do. Or, to help them prepare for a move or a life transition.”

Recently, many of our clients have been downsizing and need assistance approaching such a daunting task. The thought of moving can stop someone in their tracks with fear of where to even begin. That’s where we come in and help them evaluate their new space and what is realistic to move; what needs to go to family members; be donated; or even thrown away if damaged. Oftentimes, just by sorting “like with like”, one can see if they have 7 pairs of black pants and realistically only need to keep a couple they deem their favorite. The same holds true with many household items from kitchen gadgets to umbrellas, scarves, and winter coats. When one really takes a look at all their belongings grouped together, it is much easier to begin the downsizing process.

Realtors keep saying the housing market is improving and not only is it helpful to have an organizer come in and help you transition, but it is also imperative that you have your house ready for showing. A prospective buyer does not want to open a linen closet to towels and sheets mounted high and toppling over. This leaves a lasting impression that storage is minimal, when in fact, it may be ample and it’s a question of having too many items in the closet in the first place. Organizers can be that helpful, guiding voice that points out the problem areas and help you address them so your house can show in the best light.