5 Ways to Declutter Your Longtime Family Home Before Selling

Preparing to sell a longtime family home can be emotional — and overwhelming. Years of belongings can pile up, making it hard for buyers to see your home’s full potential.

Decluttering is one of the most impactful ways to get your home market-ready. Here are five quick tips to get started:

1. Pitch the Paper

Paper piles up fast — mail, bills, magazines, cards. Go room to room and sort it all into three piles: keep, shred, and recycle. File important documents and clear away the rest.

2. Remove Extra Furniture

Too much furniture can make a space feel small. Remove anything that’s worn, oversized, or unnecessary. Keep only a few well-placed pieces to make rooms feel open and inviting. Consider donating to the local non-profit Central Furniture Rescue who provides furniture and household items at no cost to individuals and families who are transitioning out of experiencing homelessness and into their own place to live.

3. Depersonalize the Décor

Buyers need to picture themselves living in your home. Pack away family photos, collections, and personal mementos. Stick with clean, neutral décor that highlights your home’s best features.

4. Clear the Kitchen

Kitchens sell homes. Clear off countertops, organize the pantry, and make sure cabinets and the fridge are tidy. A clean kitchen looks bigger and shows you’ve taken care of the home. If you're not using it anymore, perhaps a family member would appreciate it.

5. Streamline Closets

Full closets feel like limited storage. Keep only essentials in bedroom, hall, and linen closets. Neat, spacious closets appeal to buyers.

If you're thinking about selling — or helping a loved one downsize — I’m your local SRES® (Seniors Real Estate Specialist®), here to help make the transition smooth and stress-free.

📞 Jami N. Gordon | Broker Associate | (319) 540-2744