#1   Remove Clutter

The hardest step in this process is the first step. It is the removal of clutter and unnecessary items. We have gotten used to having the kitchen set up the way it is. Everything is at our finger tips and convenient. In order to get Top Dollar we will have to change our thinking and lifestyle a little. Take no prisoners –this must be done!

·        Remove everything from the counter tops except two or three staging items.  (see 3 things you never see in a model home). This includes the last two days mail and newspapers. Oh yes, any cat or dog food bowls!

·        Go through all the drawers, cabinets and cupboards. Pack up 1/2 to 2/3  of all pot & pans, kitchen utensils, mixers, measuring cups, etc. and pack these in boxes. Send them to storage.

·       Remove all calendars, magnet items and pictures (including the cute kid pictures) on the refrigerator. Including anything on top.

·        Brooms in corners, boxes or other stored items laying about removed and put away.

Removing clutter may involve using several different methods. 

1. Garage sales are an excellent way of reducing clutter and generating some income at the same time.  Tip - do not hold your garage sale at your home. Hold it at friends or neighbors house.  Otherwise there will be a tendency for your garage to get fuller because you just keep putting things in there for the garage sale, plush or neighbors may very well wish to add some things themselves.  Thus the garage gets fuller, not empty.

2. Donate items to your favorite charity.  Get a receipt for your taxes.

3. Box up and send to a storage facility that you've rented or to a friends or neighbors home.

4. Send to the dump.  Many items are basically worthless for you never use them again.  Why not get them a one-way ticket to the dump.