The days are getting longer, the air smells like fresh cut grass, and the sun is warming up everything — including our moods. Summer is just around the corner, and that means it’s the perfect time to clear out the clutter that’s been quietly piling up all winter. Whether you’re planning to sell, recently moved in, or just want to breathe easier in your space, a good seasonal declutter is one of the best gifts you can give yourself.
As a Realtor, I’ve seen firsthand how a clutter-free space can transform not only how a home looks, but how it feels. And when your home feels lighter, you feel lighter too.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Declutter
There’s something about spring and early summer that naturally calls for a reset. It’s not just tradition — it’s biology. We shake off the slow energy of winter and crave movement, fresh air, and clean slates.
From a real estate perspective, this is also one of the best times to list your home. Buyers are more active, showings are more frequent, and homes that feel open, bright, and well-kept get snapped up quickly. But even if you’re not selling, decluttering helps create a calm, refreshing environment where you can truly enjoy the season.
Start Small, Think Big
One of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to do it all at once. That’s overwhelming. My advice? Pick a small zone and tackle it completely — think your entryway table, a bathroom drawer, or the kitchen counter. These quick wins give you momentum.
Once you’ve cleared one space, move on to the next. By the time summer hits full swing, your home will feel like a breath of fresh air.
Use the 3-Box Rule: Keep, Donate, Toss
It’s simple, but powerful. As you go through each item, place it in one of three boxes:
- Keep: You use it, love it, or need it regularly.
- Donate: It’s still in good shape, but it doesn’t serve you anymore.
- Toss: It’s broken, expired, or beyond repair.
If you’re unsure about something, ask yourself: Would I buy this again today? If not, it’s probably time to let it go.
Bonus tip: Check out local donation centers or community swap groups. Someone else might really need what you no longer do.
The Emotional Side of Stuff
Decluttering isn’t always just about junk drawers and dusty shelves. Sometimes it’s emotional. We hold onto items that remind us of people, places, or phases of life. And that’s okay — to a point.
If you’re feeling stuck, try this: take a photo of the item, write a memory about it, and then let it go. You’re not throwing away the meaning — just the object.
If you’re planning a move, this step is especially important. The less you bring with you, the easier it is to create new energy in your next chapter.
Selling This Summer? Keep It Light and Bright
If your home is hitting the market soon, decluttering is your secret weapon. Buyers aren’t just looking at your square footage — they’re looking at how the space feels. And nothing makes a space feel smaller and heavier than too much stuff.
Focus on:
- Clear countertops
- Neutral decor
- Open floor space
- Fresh air and natural light
A well-staged, decluttered home feels like a blank canvas — and that’s exactly what buyers are looking for.
Final Thoughts
Decluttering isn’t just about having less — it’s about making space for more. More ease. More joy. More freedom. And whether you’re selling your home or settling into it, that lightness is something we all deserve.
If you’re thinking of listing your home this summer and want help getting it market-ready (or if you just want to know where to start), I’m happy to help. I’ve got tips, local resources, and an eye for what buyers are really looking for. Contact Me!
Let’s make your space — and your summer — feel a little bit lighter.