Decluttering Before Selling: Why It Matters and How and How to Do It Right

Decluttering Before Selling: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right

If you’re preparing to sell your home in the Chicago suburbs, decluttering is one of the most impactful steps you can take to help your home sell faster and for more money. It costs almost nothing, yet it can make a huge difference in how buyers see your home, both online and in person.

In competitive markets like Glen Ellyn, Wheaton, and Lombard, a clean, spacious-looking home stands out immediately and gives buyers confidence that the property has been well cared for.

Why Decluttering Matters So Much

Clutter doesn’t just make a home look messy, it changes how buyers feel about it.

• Photos look better. Most buyers start their home search online. Clean, open rooms grab attention, generate more clicks, and lead to more showings.

• Rooms feel larger. Too much furniture and décor can make even big rooms feel cramped.

• Buyers can focus on the home. Personal items distract buyers from noticing key features like flooring, natural light, and layout.

• It signals good maintenance. A tidy, organized home suggests that the entire property has been well cared for.

Think of decluttering as showcasing your home’s best features instead of your belongings.

The Decluttering Game Plan: Room by Room

Decluttering can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down makes it manageable.

1. Clear Surfaces

• Kitchen & Bathrooms: Remove almost everything from countertops. Leave just 1–2 decorative or functional items (like a fruit bowl or a single soap dispenser).

• Living Areas: Remove stacks of magazines, remote controls, and excess décor.

2. Simplify Furniture Layouts

• Take out extra chairs, side tables, or bulky pieces to improve traffic flow.

• If a room still feels crowded, consider storing oversized pieces offsite or in a garage.

3. Pack Away Personal Items

• Family photos, kids’ artwork, and personal collections make it harder for buyers to picture themselves in the space.

• Think of this as early packing, you’re moving soon anyway, so this is just step one.

4. Organize Storage Spaces

• Buyers almost always peek inside closets and pantries. Neat, partially empty shelves make storage look plentiful.

• Use matching bins or baskets for a clean, uniform look.

5. Declutter Outdoor Spaces

• Tidy patios, decks, and yards. Store away garden tools, toys, and seasonal décor so the yard feels spacious and functional.

The 90/90 Rule: A Simple Way to Decide What Stays

Not sure what to keep out? Use the 90/90 rule:
If you haven’t used an item in the last 90 days and don’t plan to use it in the next 90 days, it’s time to donate it, toss it, or pack it up.

This rule is perfect for selling prep because it helps you quickly decide what should stay visible and what should be boxed up for your upcoming move.

What to Do With All the Stuff

Decluttering doesn’t mean throwing everything away, just getting it out of sight for showings and photos.

• Pack early. Box up items you won’t need and stack them neatly in a basement, garage, or storage unit.

• Donate or sell. Take advantage of this process to let go of things you no longer need.

Think Like a Buyer

Once you’ve decluttered, walk through each room and ask:

• “What will buyers notice first?”

• “Is anything distracting from the room’s best features?”

If the answer is yes, keep editing.

The Bottom Line

Decluttering isn’t just about tidiness, it’s one of the simplest and most effective strategies to help your home sell. By making your home feel spacious, clean, and move-in ready, you’ll attract more online attention, increase showings, and give buyers the confidence to make strong offers.

Have questions about buying or selling in DuPage County? We’re happy to help, just reach out!