23, Nov 2021
I was quoted in Investment Executive last week in a retirement and downsizing article entitled, Take a Load Off. I highlighted some practical steps retirees can use to organize their estate. It will reduce the burden on their executors after they have passed on. On Purging Possessions… One challenge is… Read more
18, Oct 2021
You have spent a lifetime building your collection of artwork, figurines, stamps, toilet seats, or Star Wars memorabilia. You’ve spent time and money carefully curating pieces that bring you joy and add value. Over the years, you have acquired knowledge and become an expert. But now you are moving to… Read more
12, Jul 2021
There’s a moment in every family where it’s time to have “The Talk” about downsizing with older relatives. Often, children have “the talk” with their parents, but they could be dealing with aunts, uncles, cousins, or a family friend who needs to downsize. It can be an emotionally charged topic… Read more
17, May 2021
When helping clients declutter and downsize, they often wish to sell possessions that they no longer need or want. When placing items for sale, there is often confusion about an item’s value and worth. First, let’s look at a few definitions. Definitions Market Value This is simply the most probable… Read more
22, Mar 2021
Many of our residential clients who are moving, downsizing, or decluttering ask us about selling their unwanted goods by consignment. To help readers learn more about the process, I invited Tina Beer Hamlin of Coast Consignment to tell us all about the consignment process. Tell us about Coast Consignment. Coast… Read more
25, Jan 2021
Early in 2020, before the pandemic hit, Mustel Group and Sotheby’s International Realty released a report on real estate trends and ageing in place. It revealed that about 86% of Baby Boomers would like to live in their current home for as long as possible. Even though older adults do… Read more
16, Nov 2020
I read an excellent and touching article in the New York Times entitled “Down the Basement Stairs and Into the Past.” The author recounts his experiences when decluttering and downsizing memorabilia. As a professional organizer, I help people go through boxes, bags, and bins of their collection of souvenirs, inherited… Read more
10, Oct 2020
Estate planning used to be pretty straight-forward. You prepared a will that stated all of your ‘worldly goods’ would be given to your next of kin. Your executor wrapped up your financial affairs and ensured your kin received your goods. Today, some of our ‘worldly goods’ are invisible – our… Read more
14, Sep 2020
When I discuss downsizing with my clients, they most often think about emptying closets and cupboards. But sometimes, you have to declutter what you can’t see – digital downsizing. Most people can do this themselves, but you may wish to ask a friend or family member or hire a tech… Read more
17, Aug 2020
When we think about people who downsize, the conventional images are seniors or empty nesters moving from a large home to a small apartment. However, there are other types of downsizers. The Fun-Seeking Family The big house in the suburbs with the double-car garage and lush green lawn is the… Read more
Get FREE clutter control tips from a professional organizer direct to your inbox! Sign up for my newsletter!
It sure feels great having a home for everything! I feel like a ton of bricks have been taken off my shoulders!
— Lisa & family – drowning in home