4 Ways to De-Clutter- Going Back to Basics

At some point in our lives many of us have had to move. Whether it’s from mom and dad’s house to our first apartment or from a home where we raised our children to a smaller home. It can be heartbreaking to part with items that we've hung on to just to de-clutter for the next move but we've got to do it.  One way to to off set that is to do it from year to year, so starting  this year why not try de- cluttering your home to give it new life and perhaps you will fall back in love with it? 

Here are my De-Cluttering 101 Tips:

1.) Organize. Designate four empty bins where you will put items to keep, throw away, give away, or recycle. There is no “maybe” pile. [You can have a “sell” pile if you have a plan to sell the items such on eBay or at a yard sale. Once the sale is over, you must get rid of unsold items.]

2.) Go slowly. Start with the refrigerator then a closet or drawer per day. Place each item in one of the four designated bins. No cheating except items that you need to keep in the fridge. Everything has a place.

3.) Stop buying. You can’t de-clutter if you’re bringing in more items, especially if you’re moving to a smaller home.

4.) Storage boxes don’t equal de-cluttering. When I was a kid, I considered my room clean if all of the stuff on the floor was shoved into my closet. My parents did not agree and as an adult I can see their point. Putting stuff in a closet or into boxes – or renting a storage space - isn’t de-cluttering. It’s just putting clutter in a new place. You’ve got to open the boxes and start throwing away, giving away, selling, or recycling.

5.) Everything has a purpose. Don’t keep things that you’re not using. Each item has to serve a purpose. Good rule of thumb is if you haven’t used it in a year- you don’t need it! Keep extra bedding for when company visits but give away books that you’ve already read.

For some of us, stuff isn’t just stuff. De-cluttering can be a stressful time filled with emotions. I often think of it as a new beginning rather than an ending especially when sorting through sentimental items. Ask a friend or family member to help, take time to do it right and it will be the breath of fresh air you just might have needed, or hire a professional organizer to help you as a gift to you for the New Year.

If you have de-cluttered and you decide you just need a new place to call home, the team at Beery Realty is here to help! Contact me and we can get you started on the right path.

 480-570-1912 is direct line/emailBeeryRealty@gmail.com or on the Web at www.AzBuysHomes.com will allow you to see what is available on the actual MLS just click “Map Search”.

The Top 6 Things to Find the House Right for You

You have dreamed about owning a home. You have saved for the down payment. Now it’s time to start looking for a house that’s right for you. It seems overwhelming to think about location, features, and other factors and that’s okay. That’s why you hired a full-time real estate agent; they can help you find a place to call home.  Here are 6 top things to consider:

       Budget. No matter how badly you want the big house on the hill overlooking the lake, if it isn't in your budget, it’s not the house that’s right for you. Stay within your budget so you’re not house poor after purchasing your home. You will still have moving expenses, furniture purchases, and possible renovations, not to mention date night or nights out with friends and family.

       Lifestyle. Think about how you live your life. If you travel a lot, you might purchase a condo because it is less upkeep. If you have dogs, you might want a yard and if you have kids you might opt out of a home with a pool. The home has to fit your lifestyle or it won’t be right for you.

        Location. Real estate agents are known for saying, “Location. Location. Location,” as the top factor in purchasing a home and to some extent that’s true. If you’re looking to purchase in northeast Mesa but your friends and family are in Chandler, you might want to rethink your home search. You want to spend time with loved ones, rather than drive time to see them.

      Family. This includes future family whether you’re planning to have children or your parents living with you. If grandma is living with you, consider a one-story home or a home with two master suites. If you’re planning on children consider a split floor plan with the master on one side and bedrooms on the other side of the house.

      Features. Think about what kind of kitchen you want or the number of bathrooms, do you need a 3 car garage, these are all important things to sit down and think about. Having an idea of the features you want in your home will help your real estate agent narrow the search.

      The intangible- You have to LOVE the house. It is that feeling when you walk into the home and can see it as yours!  Remember, a house is a long-term investment no matter what the market is doing. But the right house will be your Home that you can enjoy for that long term. So, just because you've been looking for what feels like a long time, it doesn't mean you should buy a house that you LIKE. You've got to see yourself making the house a home. If you don’t, then this isn't the house that’s right for you. 

Are you ready to get started? Contact the team at Beery Realty today! BeeryRealty@gmail.com or on the Web at www.AzBuysHomes.com will allow you to see what is available on the actual Arizona MLS just click “Map Search”.