Additionally, check out our existing open house page for information on our upcoming open houses. We hope to see you there!

20 Best Practices for Successful Open Houses

Hosting an open house is NOT a game-changer in the real estate market. These days they’re actually quite laborious and, for most agents, are VERY time consuming and boring. But, they don’t have to be. We utilize them in multiple ways to both help the business as well as more quickly sell our clients’ homes.

At KnowledgeBase Real Estate, we’ve perfected the art of open houses. Here’s how we do it:

1. Thorough Cleaning

First impressions are everything. We ensure that every property is meticulously cleaned, from sparkling windows to polished floors, creating an inviting environment right from the start. We work with our clients to accomplish this. Many times the house is presentable as-is or we help coordinate cleanings and the next step prior to an open house.

2. De-Cluttering

We advise homeowners to remove personal items and excess furniture, making rooms appear larger and more neutral for potential buyers to envision themselves in the space.

3. Effective Staging

Our team of professional stagers arranges each room to highlight its best features, using décor that appeals to Southwest Florida’s diverse clientele.

4. Curb Appeal

We understand the importance of a great first impression. Our properties feature manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and a welcoming entrance, setting the tone for what’s inside.

5. Strategic Timing

We schedule open houses during peak times when potential buyers are most active, often hosting events on weekends to maximize attendance.

6. Marketing the Event

Our marketing strategy is MASSIVE, if people don’t know about the open house… they certainly won’t be coming. Our marketing channels include social media blasts, targeted email campaigns (we have one of the largest databases of any Broker in Southwest Florida), and listings in local real estate directories to ensure maximum visibility.

7. Signage

We use eye-catching signs around the neighborhood to guide visitors to our open houses, making it easy for anyone to find us.

8. Informational Material

Each visitor receives comprehensive brochures detailing the property’s features, price, and unique selling points, along with our contact information for follow-up inquiries.

9. Refreshments

We offer a selection of refreshments to create a hospitable and relaxed atmosphere, showcasing the property as a space for entertaining.

10. Ambient Music

Soft, inviting music plays in the background during our open houses, enhancing the overall ambiance and comfort of the space.

11. Optimal Lighting

We ensure every room is well-lit, using a combination of natural and artificial light to show off the property’s best features.

12. Property Highlights

Our agents are well-versed in each property’s unique attributes and are ready to discuss these highlights with visitors, from upgraded kitchens to energy-efficient features.

13. Neighborhood Information

Understanding the importance of location, we provide detailed information about the local community, schools, and nearby amenities, appealing to those looking for a lifestyle, not just a house.

14. Interactive Elements

Embracing technology, we often use virtual tours and interactive maps, allowing visitors to explore the property digitally.

15. Feedback Forms

We value feedback and provide forms for visitors to share their impressions, helping us to continually improve our approach.

16. Follow-Up Strategy

Our dedicated follow-up strategy involves reaching out to visitors post-event to answer any questions and gauge interest, ensuring no potential buyer is overlooked.

17. Security Measures

We prioritize security, taking measures to protect valuables and maintain the integrity of the property during each open house.

18. Professional Photography

High-quality, professional photographs are used in all our marketing materials, and sometimes displayed in the home, showcasing the property in its best light.

19. Networking

Open houses are prime opportunities for networking. We engage with potential buyers and fellow real estate professionals, expanding our reach and knowledge.

20. Evaluation and Improvement

After every open house, we take time to evaluate our performance, identifying areas for improvement to ensure that every event is better than the last.

At KnowledgeBase Real Estate, we understand that a successful open house is more than just opening doors; it’s about creating an experience. With these best practices, we continue to lead in the Southwest Florida real estate market, transforming properties into homes and dreams into realities.

Bonus Step – if the open house isn’t already bustling with activity we actually knock on neighbors doors to let them know about the open house so they can attend and introduce your property to anyone in their family or friend network that might be interested in becoming neighbors. 

Are you considering a life wrapped in the serene luxury of Southwest Florida’s premier communities? Whether you’re contemplating a move to a sun-kissed haven or simply seeking an investment that grows as steadily as the palms sway, the upcoming webinar hosted by Olympia Marketing and KnowledgeBase will be an unmissable event. Join us, in collaboration with KnowledgeBaseFL under the esteemed J Pavich Realty World Brokerage, for an insightful session on the state of the Southwest Florida real estate market, with a spotlight on Bonita Bay and Pelican Landing homes for sale.

The event will be hosted through Riverside FM and we’ll be posting an edited version of the discussion after the fact but we’re encouraging people to join us live next Thursday 11/16 from 1-2pm at: https://riverside.fm/studio/pelican-landing–bonita-bay

Register for the Event or Ask Questions Ahead of Time:

We’ll be covering a wide array of topics including: 

• Southwest Florida Real Estate in Q4 2023 and Q1 2024 – Where have things been? Where are we? And Where are we Headed?
• The future of Real Estate in Southwest Florida Generally (specifically as it pertains to Bonita and Estero)
• Bonita Bay – What’s happening in Bonita Bay specifically? What does the market look like for residents and for those on the outside looking in?
• Pelican Landing – What’s happening in Pelican Landing specifically? What does the market look like for residents and for those on the outside?

Bonita Bay Homes for Sale: A Synonym for Elegance and Exclusivity

Bonita Bay, a community synonymous with upscale living and refined taste, offers more than just homes; it presents a lifestyle. The question on every prospective homeowner’s mind is, “How much does it cost to join the Bonita Bay Club?” The answer is as exclusive as the club itself, with membership details and pricing reserved for those who dare to dream big. Our webinar will provide a comprehensive breakdown of the costs and the unparalleled value it brings to its members.

Is Bonita Springs a Good Place to Retire?
Absolutely. Bonita Springs is not just good; it’s exceptional. With its tranquil beaches, perfect climate, and a community that exudes a resort-like ambiance, retiring here means stepping into a postcard-perfect realm of relaxation and recreation. Our webinar will delve into the specifics that make Bonita Springs the retirement paradise you’ve been searching for.

The Visionary Behind Bonita Bay
Who built Bonita Bay? It was the vision of the legendary Bonita Bay Group, whose pioneering spirit crafted this slice of heaven, ensuring that every street, building, and blade of grass upheld the highest standards of luxury and sustainability. Learn about the history and legacy of the developers who envisioned this utopian enclave.

Golfing Glory in Bonita Bay
With not one but five championship golf courses, Bonita Bay is a golfer’s dream come true. Each course is designed to challenge and enchant, offering a lush backdrop for perfecting your swing or enjoying a leisurely game in the company of friends. Our webinar will take you on a virtual tour of these magnificent courses.

The Amenities That Set Pelican Landing Apart
Pelican Landing is more than a community; it’s a sanctuary where every amenity is designed to pamper its residents. From private beaches and tennis courts to fitness centers and sailing, Pelican Landing homes for sale come with a promise of an active and indulgent lifestyle. We’ll explore each amenity in detail, showcasing why Pelican Landing is an investment in joy.

Curated Questions for the Curious Mind
Our webinar is tailored to answer the burning questions of residents and potential movers. Here’s a sneak peek at the kind of queries we’ll satisfy:

• What are the latest trends in the Bonita Bay and Pelican Landing real estate markets?
• How has the Southwest Florida real estate landscape evolved in the last decade?
• What are the hidden gems of Bonita Bay and Pelican Landing’s real estate?
• How does the community support a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle?
• What are the investment opportunities and growth potential in these areas?
• Why Attend Our Webinar?

This webinar isn’t just a presentation; it’s a gateway to the life you deserve. By attending, you’ll gain:

• Exclusive Insights: Unveil the market trends and hidden opportunities in Bonita Bay and Pelican Landing.
• Expert Knowledge: Hear directly from Kevin Bartlett, the top real estate agent in the market, and the team at KnowledgeBaseFL.
• Personalized Answers: Get your specific questions addressed in a live Q&A session.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals, industry experts, and potential neighbors.
• Your Next Step to a Dream Home

Imagine waking up to the gentle Florida breeze and the soft murmur of waves. Picture yourself walking through communities where every corner is a testament to luxury and every sunset brings a promise of peace. This dream is within reach, and it begins with our webinar.

Don’t let this chance slip through your fingers. Seats are filling up as we speak. Reserve your spot now and join us for an event that will redefine your expectations of what a home can be. Whether you’re looking for “Bonita Bay homes for sale” or “Pelican Landing homes for sale,” this webinar is the key to unlocking the door to your future home.

Register today or ask your question using the above form and we’ll make sure to cover the topic and be part of an exclusive journey into the heart of Southwest Florida’s luxury real estate. We’re not just selling homes; we’re offering a vision of your future. And it’s beautiful.

Join us, and let’s explore the grandeur of Bonita Bay and Pelican Landing together.

At KnowledgeBaseFL, we work with a LOT of service companies and pride ourselves on being the top real estate firm in Southwest Florida. Our success is not just a result of our expertise in the real estate market, but also our commitment to preparing properties to be sales-ready. One of the key players in this process is Land Clearing SWFL, a company we rely on heavily for their exceptional land clearing services. In this blog post, we’ll delve into why Land Clearing SWFL is our go-to partner for property preparation and how they can help you too.

Why Land Clearing is Crucial for Property Sales

When it comes to selling a property, first impressions are everything. Overgrown trees, unkempt yards, and clutter can deter potential buyers. Land clearing services are essential for:

• Enhancing Curb Appeal: A clean and organized property is more attractive to prospective buyers.
• Safety: Overgrown trees and bushes can be hazardous. Clearing them ensures the safety of everyone who visits the property.
• Building Permits: In many cases, a cleared land is a prerequisite for obtaining various building permits.
• Property Valuation: A well-maintained property can significantly increase its market value.

Services Offered by Land Clearing SWFL

Land Clearing SWFL offers a comprehensive range of services that are crucial for getting a property sales-ready:

• Junk Removal: Some of our sellers are family members of deceased loved ones, or hoarders. Land Clearing SWFL helps us junk out properties and get them ready for sales.
• Excavation & Land Clearing: They prepare your land for construction or landscaping, making it more appealing to buyers.
• Tree Trimming: Their professional tree trimming services keep trees healthy and aesthetically pleasing.
• Structural Pruning: This enhances the structural integrity of trees, ensuring their long-term health and stability.
• Tree Removal: They safely remove unwanted or hazardous trees, making the property safer and more attractive.
• Exotic Tree Removal: Specialized services to remove non-native and invasive tree species.
• Stump Grinding: They eliminate unsightly tree stumps, improving the property’s appearance.
• Lot & Land Clearing: Whether it’s a small lot or a large piece of land, they’ve got you covered.
• Storm Cleanup: Their quick and efficient removal of debris and damaged trees after storms helps in getting the property back to its original state.
• Hurricane Cleanup: Specialized services to clean up and restore your property after hurricane-related damage.
• Demolition: Safe and professional demolition services for structures that need to be removed.
• Grading: They level your land to prepare it for construction, landscaping, or drainage solutions.
• Drainage: Effective drainage solutions to prevent water accumulation and flooding.

Locations Served

Land Clearing SWFL serves multiple locations across Southwest Florida, making them a convenient choice for property owners in various counties and cities:

Counties:

• Lee County
• Collier County
• Charlotte County
• Hendry County

Cities:

Lee County:

• Fort Myers
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Cape Coral

Collier County:

• Naples
• North Naples
• Golden Gate
• Marco Island

Charlotte County:

• Punta Gorda
• Port Charlotte
• Rotanda West

Hendry County:

• Labelle
• Clewiston
• Port Labelle
• Fort Denaud

Why KnowledgeBaseFL Chooses Land Clearing SWFL

Reliability

We’ve been partnering with Land Clearing SWFL for years, and they’ve consistently delivered high-quality services. Their reliability makes them an integral part of our strategy to get properties sales-ready.

Expertise

Their team of experts knows the ins and outs of land clearing, ensuring that each project is completed to the highest standards.

Customer Service

Land Clearing SWFL’s commitment to customer satisfaction aligns with our own values, making them a perfect partner for us.

Conclusion

Land Clearing SWFL is more than just a vendor; they are a strategic partner in our success at KnowledgeBaseFL. Their comprehensive services, ranging from tree removal to drainage solutions, are instrumental in preparing properties for sale. Their wide coverage across Southwest Florida counties and cities makes them a convenient and reliable choice for any land clearing needs.

If you’re looking to sell your property and want it to be sales-ready, Land Clearing SWFL is the company to call. And if you’re in the market to buy or sell real estate in Southwest Florida, KnowledgeBaseFL is here to guide you through every step of the process.

Ready to make your property sales-ready? Contact KnowledgeBaseFL today and let us help you transform your property into a buyer’s dream.

This blog post is brought to you by KnowledgeBaseFL, the top real estate firm in Southwest Florida. Visit our website to learn more about how we can help you succeed in the real estate market.

Website Redesign: A Fresh Digital Face The first step in our marketing transformation was revamping our website. Olympia Marketing’s team, with their deep understanding of user experience and design trends, created a website that not only reflects our brand’s ethos but also offers an intuitive, user-friendly experience. They focused on:

• Modern Design: Incorporating clean, contemporary aesthetics that resonate with our audience.
• Enhanced Functionality: Improving navigation and loading times, ensuring a seamless user journey.
• Mobile Optimization: Ensuring our site is responsive across various devices, catering to the growing number of mobile users.
• SEO Optimization: Enhancing our site’s visibility on search engines, crucial for driving organic traffic.

Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Marketing: Maximizing Reach Olympia Marketing’s expertise in PPC campaigns has been a game changer. Their approach involved:

• Targeted Campaigns: Focusing on keywords and demographics specific to our industry, ensuring high-quality leads.
• Budget Efficiency: Optimizing our ad spend to get the maximum return on investment.
• Continuous Monitoring and Adjustment: Regularly tweaking campaigns based on performance metrics.
• Transparent Reporting: Providing us with clear insights into the campaign’s performance and ROI.

Marketing Materials: Crafting a Cohesive Brand Message Alongside digital efforts, Olympia Marketing helped us create a range of marketing materials, including:

• Brochures and Flyers: Designed with compelling visuals and copy that succinctly communicates our offerings.
• Business Cards: Modern and professional designs that leave a lasting impression.
• Promotional Items: Creative and useful items that keep our brand top of mind for our customers.

Comprehensive Marketing Strategy: A Blueprint for Success Perhaps the most significant contribution from Olympia Marketing was the development of a comprehensive marketing strategy. This included:

• Market Analysis: Understanding our industry landscape and identifying key opportunities and challenges.
• Target Audience Identification: Pinpointing our ideal customer profiles to tailor our messaging and offerings.
• Integrated Marketing Approach: Combining traditional and digital marketing efforts for a unified brand experience.
• Measurable Goals: Setting clear, achievable objectives to monitor our progress and success.

Conclusion: Our partnership with Olympia Marketing, a leading Fort Myers marketing company, has not only elevated our marketing efforts but also set us on a path of sustained growth and success. Their holistic approach, combining technical expertise with creative prowess, has transformed how we connect with our audience and how our brand is perceived in the competitive landscape.

At KnowledgeBaseFL, we’re excited to continue this journey, embracing innovative marketing strategies and forging a stronger connection with our customers, thanks to the unparalleled support from Olympia Marketing.

What are Short Sales?

A short sale occurs when a homeowner sells their property for less than the amount owed on their mortgage. It is an alternative to foreclosure and can provide financial relief to distressed homeowners who are unable to keep up with their mortgage payments. Short sales typically involve the cooperation of the mortgage lender and require careful negotiation between all parties involved.

The Short Sale Process:

1. Financial Hardship Assessment:

To qualify for a short sale, homeowners must demonstrate a genuine financial hardship that prevents them from fulfilling their mortgage obligations. Examples of such hardships include job loss, divorce, medical emergencies, or a significant decrease in income.

2. Contacting the Lender:

Once the homeowner determines that a short sale is the best option, they must contact their mortgage lender to initiate the process. The lender will require relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, tax returns, pay stubs, and a hardship letter, to evaluate the homeowner’s situation.

3. Listing the Property:

To attract potential buyers, the homeowner or their real estate agent lists the property for sale. It is crucial to price the property accurately, as short sales often require lender approval, and an overpriced property may discourage potential buyers.

4. Negotiating with the Lender:

When an offer is received, the homeowner submits it to the lender for review. The lender assesses the offer and may request additional documentation or negotiate the terms. This stage can be time-consuming, as multiple parties may be involved in the decision-making process.

5. Mortgage Lender Approval:

If the lender approves the offer, they issue a short sale approval letter outlining the terms and conditions of the sale. This letter usually includes an expiration date, so it’s essential to act promptly to avoid losing the opportunity.

6. Closing the Sale:

Once the short sale is approved, the closing process proceeds similarly to a traditional real estate transaction. The buyer performs inspections, secures financing, and finalizes the necessary paperwork. The homeowner avoids foreclosure, and the lender accepts a lower payoff amount.

Key Considerations:

Potential Benefits:

For homeowners, short sales can help avoid foreclosure, minimize credit damage, and provide a fresh start. Buyers can often purchase properties at below-market prices, making short sales an attractive investment opportunity.

Challenges:

Short sales can be complex and time-consuming due to the involvement of multiple parties and the need for lender approval. Additionally, there may be tax implications, and homeowners should consult with a tax professional to understand the potential consequences.

Working with Professionals:

Navigating the short sale process can be overwhelming, which is why it is advisable to work with experienced real estate agents, attorneys, and mortgage professionals who specialize in short sales. Their expertise can help streamline the process and ensure all necessary steps are taken.

Short sales can be a viable option for homeowners facing financial hardships and buyers seeking affordable properties. By understanding the short sale process, its benefits, and challenges, individuals can make informed decisions and navigate this unique aspect of real estate transactions successfully. Remember, seeking professional guidance is crucial throughout the process to ensure a smooth and satisfactory outcome.

If you want to learn more about short sales and how to get the process started contact Kevin at 239.977.5642. or visit

http://knowledgebasefl.com

Know why you want to sell: Before you decide to sell your home for cash, think about why you want to do it. People usually choose this option because they need money quickly or something big has happened in their lives, like:

• Their house might be taken away because they can’t pay for it
• They’re getting divorced
• They got a house from someone who passed away
• They lost their job or need to move for a new job
• Their house needs big repairs they can’t afford

Find good cash buyers: Make sure to look for cash buyers who are honest and have a good reputation. Look for companies with good reviews from people who have sold their houses to them before. If you google “How to sell my house fast for cash in Naples” for example you’ll see a number of local whole sale real estate businesses that will buy your home for cash.

Know how much your home is worth: Before you say yes to a cash offer, figure out how much your home is worth and if there are any repairs needed. Cash buyers usually buy houses “as-is,” which means you don’t need to fix anything. But their offer might be lower than what your house is worth, so think about whether you’re okay with that.

Cash sales can be fast and easy: One of the best things about selling your home for cash is that it can be quick and simple. Cash sales can be finished in just a few days or weeks, compared to months for a normal sale. This can be helpful if you need money quickly or have to move fast.

Get ready for a fast closing: Cash sales are usually faster because there’s no need for a bank to approve a loan. Make sure you’re ready to do all the paperwork and other things needed to finish the sale.

Selling your home for cash can be a good choice if you need money quickly or have a big life change. Think about why you want to sell, find good cash buyers, know how much your home is worth, and be ready for a fast sale. Talk to a real estate expert to make sure you’re making the best choice for your situation.

Evaluate your home’s value and cash offer before accepting a– say after you’ve done a search .

1. How much can I afford to spend on a home?

Answer: Ultimately, how much you can afford to spend on a home depends on your financial situation and how much you are able to borrow. It is important to consider the costs of owning a home beyond the purchase price, such as closing costs, insurance, taxes, utilities, and monthly maintenance fees.

2. What type of mortgage should I get?

Answer: The type of mortgage you should get depends on your financial situation, including your credit score, income, and down payment. Some mortgage options include conventional, FHA, USDA, and VA loans. It’s important to research the different types of mortgages to determine which one is best for you.

3. How much money should I put down?

Answer: The amount of money you should put down as a down payment for a home depends on the type of loan you are getting, as well as your financial situation. Generally, it is recommended to put down at least 20% of the home’s purchase price to avoid paying private mortgage insurance.

4. What is a pre-approval?

Answer: A pre–approval is a written commitment from a lender that states you are approved.

Do you have more questions? We are more than happy to help answer them at 239.977.5642

Spring run is located within The Brooks master-planned development in Bonita Springs and Estero, FL. Spring Run is a 300-acre gated bundled golf community that features a total of 847 homes ranging from Condos, Coach Homes, attached villas, and Single Family Residences.  Spring Run was developed between the 1999 through 2002 by WCI communities and Pulte homes.

Spring Run is one of Estero-Bonita’s premier bundled golf communities. Featuring a Gordon Lewis designed course, which features 7,052 yards, par-72, 18-hole championship golf course you will be pleased with the playability of the course and will enjoy calling it your “home” course.

Spring Run residents have the option to join the Brooks Commons Club which offers a private beach club, health + fitness club, community center, and a private waterfront restaurant.

Spring Run features 10 distinct neighborhoods, which are situated with beautiful views of the golf course.

• Autumn Lakes – 121 Carriage homes
•  Sabal Cove – 48 attached villas
• Silver Creek – 52 Single-family homes
• Streamside – 52 Condos
• Sunset Stream – 119 Condos
• Whisper Creek – 64 Single Family Homes
• Willow Creek – 27 Single Family Homes
• Winding Stream – 146 Condos
• Coral Cove – 35 attached villas
• Hidden Lakes – 183 carriage homes

Amenities

Spring Run at The Brooks offers some of the finest amenities that a community can offer. Featuring just some of the ones as you pull through the gates you will see the pristine clubhouse as you enter. Amenities included are

• 18 Hole Golf Course
• Full Service Bar and Resturant
• Tennis Courts
• 24-Hr manned Security Gate
• And So Much More….

Photo by Tierra Mallorca on Unsplash

Managing a portfolio of rental properties is involved and it might be tempting to let less desirable tasks like reconciling expenses or filing receipts fall to the wayside. Failure to keep track of expenses can result in expensive mistakes. While you may hire an accountant or use software to get the job done, it helps to know which records you need to keep and their accuracy. Kevin Bartlett & Associates presents some advice to help you out.

Rental Property Bookkeeping

Record keeping is an important aspect of any business and real estate is no exception. These records are useful in analyzing the financial performance of the business. To optimize performance, you need to set up a solid bookkeeping system.

The two types of records that you need to keep are:

• An income and expenses record for each rental property in the form of a profit and loss statement
• Supporting or backing up documents in the form of receipts and bank statements to prove the accuracy and legitimacy of your rental income and expenses

Rental property expenses you need to keep

Property expenses are referred to as “line items.” They vary depending on real estate investor and property type and can fall into one of two categories:

• Maintenance, repairs, and utilities
• General operating expenses

Tips on how to track rental property expenses and the best resources you can use to make your job easier include the following:

• Tip #1: Understand your property expenses

Rental property expenses include mortgage, tax, and insurance. Knowledge of your rental property expenses makes it easier to calculate the real financial performance of your property. It also helps you avoid errors when filing tax returns and claiming deductions. If you are struggling to understand your property expenses, you can consult a financial advisor or accountant.

• Tip #2: Learn which expenses you can claim deductions 

You can reduce your tax bill by claiming deductions for certain expenses including legal fees, contents insurance, council tax, letting agent’s fees, service charges, and water, gas, and electricity. However, you cannot claim expenses for capital expenditure like buying the property or adding an extension.

• Tip #3:  Keep abreast with changes in legislation

Keep yourself up to date with any new legislation that may affect your tax payments and expenses. You can hire the services of an accountant or financial advisor to help you.

• Tip #4: Request invoices and receipts and file them

For accuracy and verifiability, keep a proper record of all invoices from contractors and expense receipts.

How to track expenses

A simple spreadsheet may suffice if you are managing one or two rental properties but more capable systems become necessary as your portfolio grows. Setting up a robust rental property management system can ease your expense tracking and help you make the most out of your investments. 

Helpful software you can use

Mobile apps and trackers have made it easier to manage rental properties. They allow you to track receipts, record daily bookkeeping items, create reports and prepare tax returns. Their benefits range from time-saving to providing a real-time report on the progress of your real estate portfolio with alerts on late payments.  

QuickBooks Online Advanced for example is software for invoicing and so much more. It makes it easy to track where your money is going. You can connect your bank and PayPal accounts, track and save receipts, and this system will even automatically sort expenses into specific tax categories so you can come fully prepared when tax time rolls around.

Record keeping can be overwhelming but when done correctly, it has significant financial benefits for any rental property manager. Benefits include saving time during tax season, forecasting future expenses, and avoiding debt and fraud. With the right system, you can track expenses and rental income for every property and determine the best strategy for fine-tuning operations to boost your bottom line.

Do you ever feel like clutter is taking over your life? The problem with clutter is that it always continues to pile up. That is, until you take the time to declutter – AND find solutions for keeping it away. Your mind will benefit from the lack of stuff, and your home will benefit.

Decluttering and cleaning are essential for both maintaining a home, and increasing the value if you are planning to sell, so get that broom out before the appraiser comes. If the thought of doing this seems overwhelming, you’re not alone. But don’t worry! You don’t need to hire a professional organizer to declutter successfully.

Make a Plan

It may seem like planning to declutter is overthinking things, but this step is actually an easy one that makes the whole process less stressful. Many people set aside a chunk of time to declutter their whole home, usually over the course of a few days, or they peck away at it for a while, tackling a section at a time.

Sarah Ever After suggests setting decluttering goals and increasing your decluttering efforts to meet them. Identify specific things you’ll accomplish and set timelines for yourself. You can do this by decluttering for a certain amount of time each day and then consistently increasing the intensity and amount of time you spend on it.

Consider Cleaning

As you go through your rooms organizing, it makes sense to also do some deep cleaning. You can establish a similar pattern of cleaning a section at a time, although certain aspects of deep cleaning are a little unwieldy, like upholstery. You can always outsource this phase of your project to professionals, or if your pieces are relatively new, Angi notes cleaning might fall under your warranty.

Make it a Positive Process

Too many people approach the idea of decluttering with a sense of dread. Instead, try to keep a sense of positivity throughout the process. One idea is to declutter by category rather than by room. For instance, begin with your closets, then kitchen cupboards, followed by books, papers, and sentimental objects last. Put on a favorite playlist, and dig in!

On the other hand, some people are fine with decluttering once they get going, but they struggle with starting in the first place. In this case, consider taking before and after pictures of a room. The (mostly) Simple Life points out it can be inspiring to see the fruits of your labors! Once you can see how much you’re accomplishing, the visual will provide excellent motivation to keep going.

Refreshing Rewards

Sometimes you can find motivation by rewarding yourself at the end of the process. This might be with something just for you, like a bubble bath or cup of good coffee, or it might be something relating to your home, like refreshing the look. New paint or wall treatments are a simple — yet dramatic — way to change up your space.

Don’t overlook the option of wallpaper, since nowadays it’s very user-friendly. If you go with a service like Spoonflower, you can select from thousands of peel-and-stick options designed by professional artists, or you could even design your own. Think about what will make you the happiest. If you’re on the fence, order some samples to help with your decision. 

Keep Clutter From Coming Back

Getting rid of excess clutter is only the first step. To keep it from coming back, the way you store everything that’s left can make all the difference. For example, when clothes are stacked in a drawer, it’s almost impossible to find what you’re looking for without making a mess of everything.

Instead, try folding clothes in a way that they can be stored vertically so that they stay visible. In addition to keeping your drawers much neater, you may even rediscover old favorites and get much more enjoyment out of creating your own style.

Even with the best storage solutions, clutter can still creep in. The easiest way to keep it from becoming a problem is to do a quick decluttering session each day, or declutter a little throughout your day. When you’re staring down a house full of stuff, getting started is the hardest part. Just remember – decluttering can be much easier than you think, and yes, even fun!

Photo credit: Unsplash

Considering buying or selling? Connect with real estate professional Kevin Bartlett for trustworthy assistance. Call 239-826-1891 to learn more.