How to Declutter & Depersonalize Your Home Before Selling

When preparing to sell your home, creating a clean and inviting space is key to attracting potential buyers. Decluttering and depersonalizing help buyers envision themselves in the home, increasing the chances of a quick and profitable sale. Here’s how to get started.

1. Start with a Plan

Decluttering an entire home can feel overwhelming, so break it down room by room. Make a checklist and set realistic goals for each space. A helpful resource for organizing your home is Becoming Minimalist, which offers great tips on simplifying your space.

2. Remove Personal Items

Buyers need to imagine themselves living in the home, so pack away personal items such as:

Family photos
Unique artwork or collectibles
Trophies and awards
Personalized décor (monograms, kids’ drawings, etc.)

Store these items safely for your next home. A neutral, staged environment helps buyers focus on the property itself rather than its current owners.

3. Declutter Every Room

Go through each room and remove unnecessary items. Ask yourself: Do I use this? Do I need this? Does this add value to the space? If not, consider donating, selling, or storing it. The Minimalists offer practical advice on letting go of items that no longer serve a purpose.

Key Areas to Declutter:

Kitchen: Clear countertops, remove excess small appliances, organize pantry & cabinets.
Living Room: Limit decorative items, remove excess furniture, keep surfaces clear.
Bedrooms: Simplify bedding, clear nightstands, organize closets.
Bathrooms: Store personal products, use fresh towels, clean out medicine cabinets.
Garage & Storage Areas: Tidy up, donate unused tools, and create open, organized spaces.

4. Neutralize Your Décor

Bright, bold colors and highly personalized design choices can distract buyers. Consider repainting walls in neutral tones like beige, gray, or soft white to create a blank canvas. If you need inspiration, Sherwin-Williams has great neutral color palettes that work well for staging.

5. Organize Closets & Storage Spaces

Buyers will look inside closets and storage areas, so make sure they appear spacious and tidy. A good rule of thumb is to leave about 30% of closet space empty to create the illusion of more storage. Use storage bins, dividers, and labels to keep things neat. For expert organizing tips, visit The Home Edit.

6. Deep Clean Everything

A spotless home suggests it has been well-maintained. Pay attention to:

Floors and carpets
Windows and mirrors
Baseboards and walls
Appliances (inside and out)
Bathrooms and kitchens

If deep cleaning seems overwhelming, hiring a professional cleaning service can be a worthwhile investment.

7. Consider Renting a Storage Unit

If you have excess furniture, seasonal items, or large personal belongings, consider renting a storage unit to temporarily store them. This will create a more open and inviting space in your home, helping buyers see its full potential.

8. Create a Welcoming First Impression

Declutter entryways and front porches.
Add fresh flowers or a simple wreath to the front door.
Use soft lighting and light-scented candles to enhance the ambiance.

Final Thoughts

Decluttering and depersonalizing are essential steps in making your home market-ready. A clean, neutral, and well-organized space allows buyers to see themselves living in the home, increasing its appeal and value.

Thinking about selling your home? Contact me today for personalized advice on getting your home market-ready!