Clutter, now you see it

We’ve all heard how important it is to stage a home that’s up for sale. One of the first things any home-staging expert will advise is to get rid of any excess clutter. Sometimes this task is easier said than done, especially in a large, well-established household.

Until you have time to root through the closets and organize that garage sale, here are a few Band-Aid solutions that will make your home appear less cluttered at first glance.

Store away your coat and hat rack. Not only can it be messy, but it gives the impression that your closet is too small for the job (even if it is). In the meantime, clean out your closets so they appear neat and orderly upon inspection.

If you’re the type that hangs onto magazines for those rainy days, it’s time to pack them away or get rid of them altogether. Reserve two or three with catchy covers for placement on a coffee table or in a magazine rack.

Thin out your bookcases, packing away any books destined for future garage sales or donations. Rearrange existing books in an attractive manner, dust them and add some small accessories or accents. Empty shelves are a great spot to show off a framed print or vase.

Pick up a few baskets to be used to store all that stuff you’re removing from closets and cupboards and place them discreetly on their own shelf. Attractive stacking boxes are great for filling with sweaters and sliding under a bed. They also hide papers and envelopes that create clutter in an office.

Clear off the kitchen counters, hiding appliances and food items in the cupboards where they belong.

Organize your entry areas with shoe racks, cushioned storage benches or additional closet shelves.

What started out as an eye-catching collection of fine figurines may have grown over the years, until now they have outgrown the china cabinet. Re-organize your display by thinning it out and placing extra items in storage.

If you don’t have a closet organizer – buy one. Even a small closet will look larger if it’s not packed to the brim and everything is stacked neatly. Store your extra shoes in plastic boxes and hang up your belts and ties. Spring for some matching hangars and store at least half of your clothing away.

Clean out your medicine cabinet, displaying only a few generic items; put away the ointments and prescription medication. Remember, prospective buyers will be nosing through ALL of your cupboards.

File photo