Preparing your home for sale involves more than just a fresh coat of paint; decluttering is a crucial step that can significantly impact a buyer’s perception. Removing unnecessary items allows potential buyers to envision themselves in the space, making your property more appealing. Check out our declutter guide with a comprehensive list of 54 items to consider removing:
Kitchen:
- Unused small appliances cluttering countertops
- Expired pantry items
- Excessive cookware and utensils
- Old cookbooks
- Mismatched or chipped dishes
- Refrigerator magnets and notes
Living room:
- Excess furniture making the space feel cramped
- Personal photographs and memorabilia
- Outdated magazines and newspapers
- Worn-out throw pillows and blankets
- Knick-knacks and decorative items that collect dust
- Visible cords and cables
Bedrooms:
- Clothes that no longer fit or are out of style
- Excess shoes and accessories
- Overfilled nightstands and dressers
- Old bedding and pillows
- Personal collections or hobby items
- Bulky furniture that overwhelms the room
Bathrooms:
- Expired medications and toiletries
- Worn or mismatched towels
- Half-used beauty products
- Excessive countertop items
- Old bath mats and shower curtains
- Personal hygiene items on display
Closets:
- Out-of-season clothing
- Excess hangers
- Unused bags and luggage
- Shoes that are rarely worn
- Bedding and linens not in use
- Stored items that haven’t been used in over a year
Garage/storage areas:
- Broken tools or equipment
- Old paint cans and hazardous materials
- Unused sports equipment
- Holiday decorations no longer used
- Boxes of items not opened in years
- Excessive gardening supplies
General household:
- Duplicate items (e.g., multiple coffee makers)
- Old electronics and chargers
- Stacks of unopened mail or paperwork
- Children’s toys no longer played with
- Pet items that are worn or unused
- Furniture that obstructs pathways
Outdoor spaces:
- Broken or worn outdoor furniture
- Dead plants and empty planters
- Out-of-season decorations
- Unused grills or outdoor equipment
- Cluttered patios or decks
- Children’s outdoor toys not in use
Sentimental items:
- Excessive family photos
- Personal awards and certificates
- Collections (e.g., figurines, souvenirs)
- Inherited items that don’t fit your decor
- Wedding favors or event keepsakes
- Old greeting cards and letters
By thoughtfully removing these items, you create a neutral and inviting environment that allows potential buyers to focus on the home’s features rather than its contents. This process not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also suggests to buyers that the home has been well-maintained.
Maximizing your home’s appeal with professional imagery
Once your home is decluttered, showcasing it effectively becomes paramount. High-quality visuals can significantly influence a buyer’s interest. At Virtuance, we specialize in professional real estate photography, 3D tours, floor plans, and aerial imagery to present your property in the best light. Our services are designed to attract more potential buyers and facilitate quicker sales.
To learn more about enhancing your home’s marketability, sign up for our Good Stuff Newsletter, where we share expert real estate marketing tips and strategies. And if you’re ready to experience the power of Virtuance solutions, schedule your shoot today!
Original article by Shifrah Combiths | Apartment Therapy
FAQ
Decluttering helps create a clean, spacious, and neutral environment that allows potential buyers to envision themselves in the home. A well-organized space also suggests that the property has been well-maintained.
It’s best to start at least a few weeks before listing to ensure you have enough time to organize, donate, or store items. A well-planned decluttering process can reduce last-minute stress.
Focus on high-impact areas such as the kitchen, living room, bedrooms, bathrooms, and entryway. These are the first spaces buyers notice and can greatly influence their impression of your home.
Yes, personal photos, awards, and customized decor should be removed to create a neutral space that appeals to a broad range of buyers. This helps potential buyers picture themselves living in the home.
Virtuance specializes in professional real estate photography, 3D tours, floor plans, and aerial imagery to showcase your home in the best light. Contact us to learn more about our services!
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