What do you do when a client doesn’t see the need to declutter? Here are a few great articles we found to help you navigate this potential minefield:
Inman News’ 3 ways to attack client clutter with compassion
What we liked:
- Be respectful. You never know what sentimental value may be attached to a client’s belongings.
- Make a list of pros—charities, self-storage facilities, organizers, estate sale companies, junk haulers—and pass along their contact info.
REALTOR® Magazine’s What to Do With All That Stuff
What we liked:
- Remind clients that the options aren’t just keep or toss; they can also donate, sell or store things that don’t have a clear-cut category.
- Relocation buyers/sellers may forget that they can part with clothing and gear that’s not suited for their new climate or location.
New York Times’ Market Ready
What we liked:
- This quote on the importance of decluttering, by Stribling & Associates senior VP: “It’s vital, because most real estate is aspirational, and buyers want to see themselves someplace better and more beautiful.”
- Additional reasons for a client to do some heavy editing: saving money on moving costs and storage fees.
Home Value Lead’s Real Estate Event Idea: Community Garage Sale
What we liked:
- Potential for picking up additional business in your clients’ neighborhood.
- Our thought, not theirs: Creating a community-wide opportunity to downsize = less personal pressure on the client.
Even though decluttering and organizing can be a tough topic when a client is getting ready to move, it can be a great conversation starter when you’re nurturing leads or keeping in touch with past clients who may soon be in the market for their next home. Consider working articles like these into your social media posts, e-newsletters and other soft-sell channels:
Preparing for a Move: How to Declutter & Minimize
How to Write a Garage Sale Ad (and Where to Post it Online)
Tips for Creating (and Placing) Garage Sale Signs
How to Organize a Garage in 4 Simple Steps
9 Kitchen Organization Tips
Laundry Room Organization Tips
8 Closet Organization Ideas
Organizing Ideas for Kids’ Rooms