Decluttering: The First Step Before You List Your Home

By James and Katie Boyle

James and Katie Boyle are a dedicated real estate duo with over 25 years of experience, specializing in Cape May and Atlantic Counties.

Before you spend a dime on renovations or staging, there’s something you should know. The way your home looks when buyers first walk in can either pull them in—or push them away. And more often than not, the most important changes you can make don’t require any money. After helping thousands of families sell their homes, I can confidently tell you that a clean, decluttered space matters more than expensive upgrades.

What buyers are really looking for. Most buyers don’t shop for your style; they want a fresh, clean home. They want to imagine their family in the space. If your home is cluttered or filled with personal items, it’s harder for them to do that. That’s why the first step is decluttering. Walk through your home and ask: What can I put away? Clear the countertops. Tuck away personal photos. Remove extra furniture. Your home will instantly feel bigger and more open.

How to prep a room (no cost needed). Let me give you an example. I took a look at our own living room. It had a big dog on the couch, personal items out, and furniture we didn’t need. I removed the clutter, gave it a deep clean, wiped down the baseboards, cleaned the blinds, fluffed the couch, and got the dog off the furniture. It didn’t cost a thing, just some time and effort. And the result? The room looked fresh, simple, and ready for buyers.

Decluttering is just one small part of the process, but it matters. Decluttering and cleaning are the first steps to making your home shine. And the good news? You don’t have to figure it out by yourself. James and I are here to help you every step of the way. Even before your home hits the market, we walk through with you and highlight the simple changes that help your home stand out. We’re committed to helping you get the most value with the least stress.

Let’s discuss what your home needs to sell fast and for top dollar. Call or text us at 609-226-0678, email james@myboyleteam.com, or visit myboyleteam.com to schedule your home prep walkthrough. We’ll help you focus on what truly matters so you can sell with confidence.