As May rolls in, so does National Moving Month, and it just so happens to coincide with what we refer to in real estate as The Spring Selling Season.

Spring is the optimal season to sell your home for a multitude of reasons. The warmer weather and longer daylight hours create an inviting atmosphere for highlighting your home’s curb appeal, from blooming flowers to lush green lawns. Additionally, families often prefer to move during the summer months to minimize disruption to their children’s schooling, making spring an ideal time to list your home and attract motivated buyers. Moreover, with tax refunds in hand, potential buyers are more financially prepared to make a significant investment.

Ultimately, the combination of favorable weather, increased buyer activity, and financial readiness makes spring the prime season to showcase your home and maximize its selling potential.

Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, one thing remains constant: the daunting task of decluttering and organizing your belongings for the big move. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into expert decluttering tips and moving hacks to streamline your transition and make it a breeze.

Start Early: The Foundation of a Successful Move

The key to a stress-free move lies in meticulous planning, and it all begins with decluttering. Start early to avoid the last-minute rush and overwhelm. Begin by assessing each room in your home and identifying items you no longer need or use. Remember, the goal is to lighten your load and only take with you what truly adds value to your life.

Not sure where to start? Tchotchkes! If you’ll be selling your home first, you’ll want to start packing so it can be properly staged for photos and showings, which means removing objects that are smaller than a baseball and leaving no more than three items on each surface.

You’ll also want to remove personal items like family photographs and diplomas. Remember: if your home is starting to feel boring, neutral, and impersonal, you’re on the right track because you want buyers to be able to picture themselves living there.

But how do you know what those things are?

Embrace the KonMari Method: Spark Joy in Your New Home

Inspired by Marie Kondo’s philosophy of keeping only items that “spark joy,” the KonMari Method is a powerful decluttering technique that can transform your space and mindset. Start with areas of your home that accumulate the most clutter, such as closets, attics, and basements. Take each item in your hands and ask yourself, “Does this spark joy?” If the answer is no, it’s time to bid it farewell. By surrounding yourself only with belongings that bring happiness, you’ll create a harmonious environment in your new home.

Sort items into three categories: keep, donate/sell, and discard. And don’t feel bad about getting rid of things as there are certainly people who would benefit from your donations.

Divide and Conquer: Room-by-Room Decluttering Strategy

Tackle the decluttering process systematically by adopting a room-by-room approach. Use high-quality packing supplies such as sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers. Pack strategically by grouping similar items together and labeling each box with its contents and destination room. Utilize labeled boxes or bags to keep things organized and easily identifiable and label the sides of the boxes instead of the top.

Here’s a great bonus tip: Color code your move to make it easy for movers. For instance, put a green sticker on boxes that go in the kitchen, blue for the primary bedroom, red for the den. Hang the corresponding color construction paper at the entrance of each room in your new house.

Pack Like a Pro: Tips and Tricks for Efficient Packing

Utilize soft items like clothing and towels to cushion fragile items and save space.

While clothes are still hanging, rubber band a bunch of hangers together. Then, grab a garbage bag, cover the clothes, and then tie it shut around the hangers at the top.

Pack heavy books in luggage with wheels for easy transport.

Use a pool noodle around the edges of your mirrors and picture frames to protect them from breaking.

Store spices inside of pots, cover with lids, add to boxes.

Use coffee filters in-between plates.

Store knives in potholders.

Use clothes and scarves to wrap breakable items.

When it comes to organizing your belongings for a new house, think outside the box—literally! Invest in space-saving storage solutions such as vacuum-sealed bags, under-bed storage containers, and stackable bins.

Don’t forget to pack an “open first” box containing necessities for your first night in your new home, such as toiletries, bedding, snacks, paper towels, toothbrushes, pajamas, toilet paper and shampoo. A laundry basket would work well for this task.

Enlist Help: Share the Load and Lighten Your Burden

Moving is a team effort, so don’t hesitate to enlist the help of friends, family, or professional movers. Delegate tasks and divide responsibilities to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Consider hosting a packing party where loved ones can lend a hand while enjoying food and company. If hiring movers, do your research and book well in advance to secure your preferred date and time. Remember, there’s strength in numbers, and sharing the load can lighten your burden both physically and emotionally.

Conclusion:

By implementing these decluttering tips and moving hacks, you’ll navigate the transition with ease. Remember, moving is not just about changing your address—it’s an opportunity for growth, renewal, and new beginnings. Embrace the journey, cherish the memories, and welcome the adventures that lie ahead. Happy moving!