This April, Altogether Organized will be 10 years old! When I launched the business, I never imagined all of the terrific people I would meet and the valuable friendships I would develop. To show my appreciation to past clients, we have created a special "Anniversary Year Reward Program" (outlined in this newsletter) and I'd like to say a huge and heartfelt thank you.
Because many of our clients want our help in getting organized to show, sell and move their homes, this issue also focuses on how to declutter to make your home look its best -- whether you are moving or not!
Best Regards,
Linda
IS IT REALLY A "KEEPER"?
One important step in decluttering is deciding what not to keep. The rule of thumb is to keep only what you use and/or like. However, for some people, making these decisions can be very challenging.
Here are some questions to ask yourself when considering what to keep and what to get rid of:
Do I like this?
Do I want this?
Have I used this in the past year? How likely am I to use it in the next year?
Is this current? Does it go with my current d�cor, taste, etc.?
Do I already have enough?
Do I have enough space for this?
Could I get this again if I need it?
Is it in good condition? If not, how likely am I to fix it?
Is this still important to me?
If I don't want it or like it what is holding me back from letting go?
YOUR CLUTTER IS WANTED!
Most decluttering projects result in items to be donated and we are often asked where to do so.
Here is a list of organizations that will pick up your donations.
Be sure to check out this new play! Mention the code HERON when you order to receive a $10 discount off of the purchase of two tickets. The offer is good for performances from January 21st through February 10th. Contact the Greenhouse Theater at 773-404-7336 for more information.
With appreciation to our Angie's List clients who rated our services.
REALTORS SOUND OFF ON CLUTTER!
What do realtors really think when they see a cluttered house?
We often help clients who want to get their homes organized so that they look their best before putting them on the market. In talking with many realtors, I've learned about how clutter affects the sale of a home. Here is a recap of their comments.
Most Buyers Cannot See Beyond Clutter - Decluttering is very important because people have a visceral negative reaction to clutter.
Too Much Stuff is Distracting - Buyers need to picture themselves living in your home. Less of your stuff leaves more space for them to see where their things can go.
Less is More - You are showing off your space and not your things.
Buyers Make Assumptions - If you present a home that is disorganized or messy, buyers make assumptions that maybe things like the furnace and the roof haven't been taken care of.
Clean and Uncluttered Expedites the Sale- When the house is clean and uncluttered, you will increase your chances of selling within the first 30 days and get the best and highest offer you can.
Decluttering can make the difference between a sale and no sale.
As you can tell, most buyers are unable to see beyond the clutter and that having clutter actually negatively affects a home's sale.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO US
(and presents for you)!
Announcing our Ten Year Anniversary Rewards Program!
This year Altogether Organized turns 10 years old!!!! As a way to show our appreciation to our clients, we are offering a special coupon to be used anytime in 2012.
Here's how it works:
For every calendar year in which you've worked with us, you will receive $10 off of your next appointment. In addition, you will receive $10 off for each person you have referred to us that used our services.
For example, if you worked with us in 2003, 2007 and 2009 you will receive $30 off your next appointment (3 hour minimum). If you also referred 2 people who then became our clients, you will receive an additional $20 for a total of $50 off of a newly scheduled appointment.
Not certain which years you've worked with us or unsure if your referral became a client? No problem - we can quickly tell you. Just call our office at 847-266-9166, reply to this newsletter email or email me directly at linda@altogetherorganized.org
Check in on Altogether Organized's Facebook Page!
I have been posting before and after pictures, organizing tips, advice and links on a weekly basis. Thanks for all the positive feedback from those of you who have been receiving them.
