House not selling? It might not be the price......

Selling your home can feel overwhelming, especially if it seems stuck on the market. While you may be tempted to think the price is too high, it's possible that the real issue lies within your home—specifically, clutter. A cluttered space can deter potential buyers faster than an overpriced listing. In this post, we will discuss effective decluttering strategies and share packing and unpacking tips to make your move as smooth as possible.

The Impact of Clutter on Home Sales

When potential buyers walk into a home, they want to picture themselves living there. Clutter can create a chaotic feeling that hinders this vision. Studies show that homes with minimal clutter can sell up to 20% faster than those that are messy. A disorganised home might lead buyers to assume that the property lacks maintenance and care, which can lower their offers significantly.

Decluttering goes beyond simple tidying; it's about crafting an inviting environment that allows buyers to envision their lives in your space. For example, clearing away excessive furniture can make a room feel larger and more functional.

House Selling Tips: Declutter to Impress

1. Start Small: Choose one room or even just a closet. Completing small tasks can give you a quick sense of accomplishment and encourage you to move on to larger areas.

   
   

2. Sort and Categorise: As you sort through items, divide them into four categories: keep, donate, sell, and discard. Be honest with yourself. If you haven’t used something in the past year, you might consider letting it go ready for the move.

   
   

3. Use Storage Solutions: Invest in boxes, baskets, and shelves, which can help organise what you keep and make your home look more structured. For instance, stylish baskets for toys can keep living areas tidy while adding to the decor and personality.

   
   

4. Create a Neutral Space: When staging your home, aim for a neutral aesthetic. Removing the majority of personal items, such as family photos and unique décor, can help buyers focus on the space rather than the personal touches.

   
   

5. Deep Clean: After decluttering, give your home a thorough cleaning. A clean house not only feels more inviting but creates an impression of care. Statistics show homes that are professionally cleaned before showings can boost selling price by as much as 5%.

6. Inviting smells: Nothing too overpowering but a few candles or fresh baked goodies will make a huge difference.

   
   

House Move Packing Tips

Once your home is decluttered and ready for viewings, it's time to prepare for packing. Here are some actionable tips:

1. Gather Supplies: Stock up on boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers before you start. Having all your materials in one place will save you time and frustration.

   
   

2. Pack Room by Room: Focus on one space at a time to stay organised. This strategy reduces chaos and simplifies the unpacking process later on.

   
   

3. Label Everything: Clearly label each box with its contents and destination room. This small step can significantly reduce the time and effort needed during unpacking.

   
   

4. Protect Fragile Items: Use bubble wrap or packing paper for fragile items. Using towels or blankets for cushioning can also save money and still protect your belongings but make sure you label the box to say this. No-one wants to grab a towel and smash a family heirloom!

   
   

5. Don’t Overpack Boxes: Keep boxes light to avoid injury or damaging contents.

   
   

6. Pack an essentials box: Think things you will need in the next few days, as well as packing a suitcase with items of clothing and toiletries for the next week! Just think of it like going on holiday!

   
   
   
   

House Move Unpacking Tips

Once you've moved, unpacking can be just as challenging. Here are some strategies to make it manageable:

1. Unpack Essentials First: Start with items you need immediately, like toiletries and kitchenware. This will help you settle into your new home quickly.

   
   

2. Create a Plan: Before unpacking, have a clear idea of where items should go. This pre-planning will keep everything organised and reduce the likelihood of unnecessary rearranging. I like to use post it notes on cupboard doors. This way I can change as I go and no sticky residue will be left!

   
   

3. Take Your Time: Unpacking can take several days or even weeks—there’s no rush. Taking your time ensures everything is where you truly want it.

   
   

4. Involve the Family: If you have family members, invite them to help with unpacking. Making it a team effort can lighten the load and make the process more enjoyable. This is where the post it tip is a real game changer. So often I go into homes years after people move in to be told "I don't like it there but thats where my mother in law put it" It is your home and needs to work for you.

   
   

5. Celebrate Your New Space: Once settled, celebrate this new chapter in your life! Hosting a small gathering can help you bond with your new community and create lasting memories in your new home.

   
   

A clean and organized panty ready for potential buyers

Final Thoughts

If your home isn’t selling, it might not be due to the price. Clutter can greatly affect a buyer's perception and their readiness to make an offer. By investing time in decluttering, you will create a welcoming atmosphere that helps potential buyers visualise their future in your home.

Once you've sold your home, remember that packing and unpacking can also be tricky. With effective strategies, you can streamline the process and make your move as smooth as possible. So, roll up your sleeves, get organised, and watch your home turn into a buyer's dream!

If you want any further advice or hands on support you know where I am!

Remember - A perfect Space is a space thats perfect for you!

Lauren

xx