For many of us the new year signals a fresh start, whether that be to set some goals for the year, set up an excercise routine, review our finances and budget, decide on a home renovation or maybe consider selling our home. Getting your home organized can be very rewarding and helpful. Here are some tips to help you get started as well as a list of organizations where you can donate items.

• Declutter/tidy. Generally extra boxes/piles on the floor should be addressed. Consider streamlining the number of photos or artwork on walls, you’ll see areas that might need cleaning, repair, or a fresh coat of paint. Tidy under vanities, front hall closets, closets in bedrooms. Complete one room at a time, it will give you a great feeling of accomplishment! Make a bag or box for 1. items to keep 2. items to give away or sell and 3. items to throw out.
• Right-size. Let go of excessive furniture that doesn’t serve a specific purpose or furniture that is worn out.
• Make room for storage. Add shelving, cupboards, or bookshelves where you can store items and access them easily.
• Clean. Sparkling kitchens and bathrooms are appealing! Clean and apply fresh grout for backsplash tiles & tub tile surrounds if required. Carefully caulk around the perimeters of sinks, tubs and counters. Good time to clean appliances after holiday cooking and don’t forget the hood fan and behind appliances.
• Regular maintenance. Furnace filter changed, HRV filter changed, Humidifier cleaned, Gas Fireplace cleaned. Address leaky faucets/toilets running, sticking front door lock/handle.

Taking one room at a time is a good way to get going. Set a timeline for your goals, whether one day, one week or one month to help you get started! If you are beginning to feel overwhelmed and not sure where to start, give us a call, we can help prioritze and make suggestions.