The result was a far more organized storage space that not only looked more pleasing but also held more items than the jumbled-up mess.
Storage Space is Critical for Buyers
De-cluttering and maximizing storage space is crucial when you're thinking of selling because it's a critical consideration for buyers.
In fact,
not uncluttering may actually
prevent a sale. It
certainly will depress the price. And it doesn't just apply to closets.
When prospective buyers tour your home, they probably won't touch the furniture.
But they
will explore your closets, open the drawers in the kitchen, go into the garage and attic (if it's readily accessible), and check out every other built-in storage space available.
Your goal is to make
all of them appear under-utilized.
Remove clothes from bedroom closets until there are about half as many as would fit comfortably.
The same goes for the kitchen drawers and cabinets. And under the bathroom sink.
And the storage closet in the hall. And the garage.
Even if you're a pack rat and you think no buyer could possibly have as much stuff as you do,
they will think that they do.
If buyers see a house overflowing with
your things, they will believe - whether it's true or not - that there will not be enough space for
their things.
A Millennial Paradox
Which brings us to a paradox in the current market.
Many buyers these days - particularly "millennials" - are looking for
smaller houses with
more room for their stuff. Kitchens and bathrooms may sell houses, but only if they come with adequate closet space.
I've said time and again that you want buyers to imagine living in your space.
I should qualify that: You want buyers to imagine living
comfortably in your space.
You want it to be a
pleasant story. If they imagine a cramped and cluttered future in the space you're offering, they'll pass.
