Real Estate Information Archive

Beyond simply brightening your Omaha home's appearance, surrounding yourself with houseplants provides numerous health benefits. Even for those without an innate gardening talent, a plant or two can offer advantages such as improved air quality, reduced stress, and increased creativity.

Reduce Stress

With the lingering stress of the pandemic and remote work, we could all use a little less anxiety in our lives these days.

According to a study in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology, having plants in your home or office can help you feel calmer and more comfortable.

Indoor gardening can lower blood pressure and heart rate, as well as reduce psychological and physiological stress levels, due to the calming presence of plants.

Researchers have proposed several theories to explain how plants can reduce stress. For instance, the sight of plants may evoke thoughts of being outdoors, fostering patience. Admiring your plants can also cultivate mindfulness.

Immune System Boosters

Plants can strengthen your immune system in several ways. Firstly, if plants help you feel more relaxed, you are more likely to get high-quality sleep, which boosts immunity.

Plants release airborne chemicals and phytoncides into the air that can boost your immune system. A 2002 research review discovered that patients recovering from surgery needed less pain medication and had shorter hospital stays when surrounded by plants during their recovery.

Better Productivity

When you surround yourself with plants at home and at work, you may find increased productivity and creativity. The presence of living greenery can provide a pleasing focal point, uplifting your mood and ability to concentrate.

In 2004, researchers conducted a study in which participants were asked to make creative word associations. The researchers found that participants who had plants in the room with them performed better on this task. A follow-up study in 2007 similarly showed that people with plants in their workspaces were more productive and took fewer sick days.

Air Quality Improvements

Houseplants can absorb toxic substances like formaldehyde and benzene that pollute indoor air. These pollutants are artificial materials that release harmful gases. Studies show houseplants also reduce dust by up to 20%. NASA recommends 15 to 18 plants for a 1,800 square foot home to maximize air-purifying benefits. Even just one or two plants can improve indoor air quality.

Plants release water vapor through transpiration, which increases humidity levels. This added moisture in the air can improve skin hydration and respiratory health. For those who suffer from headaches, respiratory problems or allergies, surrounding yourself with plants may provide relief.

To maximize the air-purifying benefits, place plants within six to eight feet of where you commonly sit or sleep. Doing so allows you to fully gain from their oxygen production during photosynthesis and carbon dioxide absorption.

When the body has more oxygen, energy levels, concentration, and mood are all likely to improve.

As humans, we have a deep connection to nature. Surrounding yourself with plants indoors in your daily life can help you reconnect with this bond, providing both physical and psychological benefits that are worth exploring.

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If you've decided to sell or buy this year...congratulations!  What an exciting time for you. We're here to assist you every step of the way. Call our family team of experts today and we'll get down to business crafting your plan for real estate buying and selling success! 

Approximately 70% of houses nationwide are affected by mold, indicating that this issue is widespread and not to be underestimated. It is important to acknowledge that even if you believe your Omaha home is safe, the reality is that mold can easily be introduced and thrive under suitable conditions.

Hidden mold in the house can be a challenging problem to address, particularly when you can detect its presence through its distinct odor but cannot visually locate it. In such cases, it is important to take immediate action to prevent further mold growth and potential health risks. Here are some steps you can take to deal with hidden mold:

Identify the Source of Mold

While you can't see the mold, you can certainly identify what's causing it.

To identify the cause of mold in your house, conduct a thorough inspection for signs of water damage. Look for leaks, water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors. Don't forget to check poorly ventilated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces.

Address Water Issues

If you notice any water leaks, it is important to address them promptly. This may require fixing roofs, pipes, or windows. To prevent the growth of mold, make sure there is adequate ventilation in areas that are prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

Isolate Affected Areas and Clean

To prevent the spread of spores, it is important to isolate the affected areas where mold is found. However, it is crucial to note that there are likely many hidden spores throughout the entire house, contributing to the mold problem.

To protect yourself and prevent spreading mold spores, put on personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, goggles, and a mask. Use mold-killing solutions like hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, or commercial mold cleaners to clean your home. Scrub with a stiff brush.

Remove Mold-Infested Materials

When encountering heavily contaminated drywall or insulation, it is important to note that these materials cannot be effectively cleaned. In such cases, proper disposal is necessary.

Make sure to dispose of these items properly by securely bagging them in a thick trash bag. It's a good idea to double-bag for added protection. Once bagged, wrap and tape the opening to ensure it stays closed.

Consider Professional Remediation

If visible mold cannot be found or if there is a severe infestation, it may be necessary to seek professional help. A mold remediation company can locate and remove the sources of mold, ensuring that your home is safe to live in. It is important to note that not everyone is physically capable of cleaning mold due to health reasons.

Sell Your House

Selling your house can be a wise choice in certain situations. If your property is plagued by severe mold and other significant problems, it may be best to sell it and move on. Fortunately, there are buyers who will purchase your house in its current condition, providing you with a quick source of cash. This can be an excellent opportunity to make money swiftly. Of course, you can count on The Heim-Berg Team to help you if you decide to go that route.

Take Care of Hidden Mold in the House

Hidden mold in your Omaha home can have serious health implications, making it crucial to address any suspicions of infestation. Although there are DIY methods to combat mold, opting for professional mold remediation services is often the best choice. In severe cases, selling your home may be worth considering. For additional tips on maintaining a safe and comfortable home, explore our many blog articles on this site.

Have your home needs changed in the past year? Perhaps you’ve outgrown your present home, or need to downsize to a more suitable home. If you’re ready to make a move, let’s connect and talk about all the amazing opportunities that are available to you!

Are you looking for an inexpensive way to add some spice to your kitchen? Adding a backsplash is a practical way to add aesthetic value to your kitchen. And if you plan to sell your home in Omaha, a good looking backsplash will be one more thing about your kitchen to attract home buyers.

Usually, most people use porcelain or ceramic as materials for backsplashes. Those are durable and beautiful materials, but they aren't the only ones you can use. If you want to give your kitchen a new look, consider these options.

Tiles

Tiles can be made of ceramic, glass, or natural stone. Tile is popular because it's tough and does a great job of protecting the wall. It's also easy to keep clean.

You should consider the style of your kitchen when selecting tile. White ceramic tile can look great in both modern and retro-inspired kitchens. Natural stone in marble can give your kitchen a luxurious feel. Glass can add a bright and funky feel.

Glass

Speaking of glass, you could use a large sheet of tempered glass, instead of using glass tile. This works great for adding protected lighting above your stove. It also allows you to use any wallpaper or paint you want behind the glass. Using a sheet of glass can add modern flare to any kitchen.

Chalkboard Paint

Painting your backsplash with chalkboard paint is an easy and affordable DIY project. It can also be quite handy, as you can write messages, menu ideas, or anything helpful in the kitchen.

When you're ready for a clean slate, all you have to do is wipe it clean. The only down side is that the black paint may close your kitchen in and make it feel smaller.

Mirror

For smaller kitchen, a mirror as a backsplash can give the illusion of more open space. It will also bounce more light around your kitchen. The more light, the more inviting the space.

The surface of the mirror will be easy to clean, though it will end up taking more effort to keep clean as any little bit of grease or dirt will show.

Wallpaper

We only mention wallpaper because it may not be the best idea for a backsplash. It may be a fast and easy option, but it won't offer much protection and can peel from the moisture.

Stainless Steel

Lining your backsplash with stainless steel will give it a modern feel and tie all of your stainless steel appliances together. It's ideal because it's durable, easy to clean, and resistant to high temperatures.

Just be careful with acidic foods. The acid will ruin the finish if not immediately cleaned.

Consider one of these backsplash materials for your kitchen. Think about the amount of cooking you do and the level of durability and protection you need. Some materials such as chalkboard paint or wallpaper you can apply yourself. Others, such as tile, marble, and stainless steel are best left to the professionals.

Have your home needs changed in the past year? Perhaps you’ve outgrown your present home, or need to downsize to a more suitable home. If you’re ready to make a move, let’s connect and talk about all the amazing opportunities that are available to you!

Refinancing your Omaha home loan can seem like a great idea, with the promise of lower interest rates and reduced monthly payments. However, it's important to be aware of the hidden costs that can come with refinancing. 

By being aware of these potential costs and doing your research, you can make an informed decision about whether refinancing is the right choice for you.

Loan Application and Establishment Fees

When refinancing a home loan, lenders typically charge application and establishment fees. These fees can cover various expenses such as loan processing, property valuation, legal documentation, and loan setup. 

While some lenders may offer fee waivers or discounts, it's important to consider the loan terms and repayment structure to determine if the benefits outweigh the upfront costs.

Exit Fees and Break Costs

When refinancing your home loan before the end of the fixed-rate period or during a specific period stated in your original loan agreement, you may have to pay exit fees or break costs. These fees are meant to compensate the lender for the loss of interest income due to early repayment or refinancing.

To avoid any surprises, it's important to carefully examine your existing loan terms and consult with your current lender to understand any potential exit fees or break costs associated with refinancing. Even though refinancing may still be financially beneficial despite these costs, it's crucial to factor them into your decision-making process.

Lender's Mortgage Insurance 

Lender's Mortgage Insurance (LMI) is a form of insurance that lenders may require when the loan-to-value ratio (LVR) exceeds a certain threshold, typically 80%. LMI protects the lender in the event of default by the borrower.

When refinancing, if the new loan results in a higher LVR than your current loan, you may be required to pay LMI. It's important to consider this additional cost and factor it into your refinancing calculations. However, it's worth noting that LMI is a one-time payment and may still be financially viable depending on the overall cost savings achieved through refinancing.

Loan Term and Repayment Structure

Refinancing your home loan can be a good way to evaluate your loan term and repayment structure. It can help reduce monthly payments, but it's crucial to consider the long-term impact. Extending the loan term can lead to paying more interest over the life of the loan, despite having a lower interest rate.

Evaluate the trade-off between immediate cost savings and the potential increase in overall interest paid. If your primary goal is to pay off your mortgage sooner, refinancing to a shorter loan term may be more beneficial despite potentially higher monthly payments.

Property Valuation and Legal Fees

Refinancing often requires a property valuation to determine the current market value of your home. This is done by a professional valuer and comes with costs. Legal fees, including conveyancing and mortgage registration fees, may also be involved in the refinancing process.

It's important to factor in these costs when evaluating the financial feasibility of refinancing. While they may not be substantial compared to other expenses, they contribute to the overall cost of refinancing and should be considered as part of the decision-making process.

Ongoing Fees and Charges

When taking out a new loan, it's important to not only consider the upfront fees but also the ongoing fees and charges. These may include monthly account keeping fees, annual service fees, and redraw fees, among others. It's crucial to understand the full scope of the fees and charges associated with the loan to make an informed decision.

While these fees may seem relatively small individually, they can add up over the life of the loan. Carefully review the fee structure of potential lenders and compare them against your current loan to ensure that the overall cost of the new loan aligns with your financial goals and expectations.

Interest Rate Changes and Timing

When contemplating refinancing, it's crucial to assess the timing and potential fluctuations in interest rates. While opting for a lower interest rate could lead to savings, it's necessary to take into account the likelihood of interest rates increasing in the future.

To make an informed decision about the best time to refinance, it's advisable to research the market and seek guidance from financial experts on interest rate trends and forecasts.

Make the Right Refinancing Decisions 

Refinancing one's home loan can provide financial advantages, but it's important to take into account the potential hidden costs that may affect the decision-making process. These costs include application and establishment fees, exit fees and break costs, LMI, ongoing fees, and potential interest rate changes. By considering these factors, one can make a more informed decision and ensure that refinancing is in line with their financial objectives.

Before diving into the refinancing process, carefully evaluate the overall costs and benefits, seek professional advice from an independent mortgage broker, and compare loan offers from different lenders. 

By conducting thorough research and weighing the potential hidden costs, you can navigate the refinancing journey with confidence, ensuring that it is a financially prudent decision that supports your long-term financial well-being.

Have your home needs changed in the past year? Perhaps you’ve outgrown your present home, or need to downsize to a more suitable home. If you’re ready to make a move, let’s connect and talk about all the amazing opportunities that are available to you!

Many Omaha homeowners are interested in decorating according to their individual tastes while coming up with a visually appealing look. Those magazines make it seem so simple, but it can also be quite expensive. Even if your budget is limited, you can still get the look you want. You can save money by redecorating your home with these ideas.

Reuse

Before buying new furniture, bedding, and fixtures that will quickly consume your budget, take stock of what you already own. Try to repurpose items. A simple piece of furniture can be transformed with new hardware or a fresh coat of paint.

It is possible to use different types of furniture for different purposes. An unused dining table can be turned into a desk. An old sofa table can be transformed into a mobile bar by adding wheels. Or, you can recycle and revamp an old dresser.

Simple Appearances

Bigger isn't necessarily better. Without spending a lot of money, a few simple changes can have a considerable impact. One way to achieve this is to paint a feature wall or change the color scheme. The throw rugs and light fixtures can also be changed. Even the simplest of changes, like changing the lamp shade, can have a significant impact.

Pillow covers and duvets can be added to bedspreads. But what is a duvet? A duvet is similar to a pillow case for a bedspread. You can pair duvets with existing bedspreads for a unique look. You could also make your own cover if you are looking for something more customized.

Shopping on a budget

If you want to purchase some items, consider purchasing used items. You can find inexpensive décor items in thrift stores and second-hand stores. In addition to wholesalers and liquidation merchants, salvage yards can save some money. It is also important to consider other uses for items.

Be on the lookout for items that people are trying to sell. Visit flea markets and yard sales in the Omaha area, especially now that Spring is here. There are many items available for cheap on eBay. Swap meets can also provide you with what you need, while also letting you get rid of items that no longer fit your needs.

Artwork

Rather than buying expensive reprints or originals, create your own. Use your decoupage or painting skills. Display your child's artwork. You can download free artwork to print at home. Repurpose some old wooden frames. Sponging and foiling can be used to create decorative displays.

One at a Time

It's important to take things one step at a time. Don't redecorate every room at once. Consider dividing your budget into chunks for each room that you would like to redecorate. If you look at each room individually, you may find that there is some money left over for other rooms. By taking on one room at a time, you can avoid becoming overwhelmed by taking on too much all at once.

No matter how small your budget is, there are numerous options for redecorating on a budget. With redecorating, you can make huge or small changes, both of which impact the end result. It's up to you to choose an environment that best represents your tastes in your Omaha home.

Have your home needs changed in the past year? Perhaps you’ve outgrown your present home, or need to downsize to a more suitable home. If you’re ready to make a move, let’s connect and talk about all the amazing opportunities that are available to you!

"I love removing old wallpaper!" said no-one ever. When it comes to removing old wallpaper, most people would put it up there on the "not fun" list with getting teeth pulled.

But alas, removing old wallpaper is a task that must be done sometimes, especially if you buy an older home in Omaha. So how can you remove it an keep your sanity as well?

Check to See If Your Walls Were Primed

If your wallpaper is primed, that's a "prime" situation, as it will definitely speed up the removal job. Priming paper became a common practice in the 1990's, as it kept the glue from forming too strong of a bond with the plaster.

It's easy enough to check if your walls are primed. Just loosen a corner or seam with a putty knife and pull. If it comes off in one sheet, success!

With well-primed walls, dry stripping should work for the entire job and you could finish a room in a couple of hours at most.

Water Works Miracles

If your wallpaper is not primed, all is not lost. Wallpaper glue is water-based, so you can still remove it if your walls are not primed.

Here's a technique the pros use:

• Score or perforate the paper and its backing in sections so water can soak through and loosen the glue. The pros recommend a scoring tool called the PaperTiger (under $20) because it doesn’t harm the wall.
• Douse the perforated paper with hot water using a pump or compression sprayer. The big mistake most people make is using a regular old spray bottle or damp rag to wet the paper. This leads to hours of fruitless scraping because the paper and its backing don’t get sufficiently saturated. The sprayer, on the other hand, gives you the firepower to really soak the glue.
• Let the paper soak for about 15 minutes and scrape it off with a putty knife.

This process will take about 6 hours for an average room, but it's better than how long it would take if you didn't know how to do this.

Avoid Chemical Strippers Because of the Fumes

You can go with chemical wallpaper strippers, which is what the pros use. But the downside is the fumes, and it costs more than using water (of course).

Don't Try the Fabric Softener Trick

You may have heard that using fabric softeners with diluted water will remove wallpaper. Yet, no expert agrees with that method.

In fact, fabric softener makes removing wallpaper even more complicated and messier than just using water, as it ends up mixing the glue with the fabric softener. The fabric softener can also harm drywall.

So when it comes to removing wallpaper, the happiest journey (assuming your walls aren’t primed) involves water — and patience.

Have your home needs changed in the past year? Perhaps you’ve outgrown your present home, or need to downsize to a more suitable home. If you’re ready to make a move, let’s connect and talk about all the amazing opportunities that are available to you!

The holidays bring so much joy and fun to our homes and families, but when they are finished, the clean-up begins. And let’s be honest, this clean up isn’t the ordinary ‘after a weekday meal’ clean up. It’s time to do some heavy-duty cleaning to get your home ready and running efficiently to take on the new year. Let’s look at the 5 most important areas to focus on for the ‘deep clean’ after the holidays.

1. Dishwasher- If your home is anything like ours your dishwasher has probably been running non-stop. Especially if you’ve hosted overnight guests as well. Think of all the food residue from your holiday dishes that your dishwasher has scrubbed through?! Remember, all that gunk can build up on the inside walls, racks, and bottom of the dishwasher itself as well. However, there’s good news! It’s easy to clean and get rid of that and have your dishwasher looking and running like it's brand new again. You’ll want to start by handwashing all removable filters.  Then put together 1 scoop of dishwasher-approved cleaning solution into the bottom of an empty dishwasher and run on your dishwasher’s hottest setting. Voilà - that’s it!  When finished it’ll be good as new and ready to tackle anything you toss in it.
2. Refrigerator- First and foremost, start by tossing out all the old & expired foods and any bottles or containers that are empty or nearly there. Then set aside all remaining items in your refrigerator so that you can clean inside.  Start with a cleaning solution and hot water.  Wipe down all shelves and bins. Remove any pieces possible to scrub thoroughly. Once everything has been scrubbed inside, organize and replace foods and condiments back in. Place a baking soda deodorizer inside to eliminate any future odors. Not done yet. If you haven’t already done so, pull out the refrigerator and vacuum off the vents in the back. They tend to get very dusty and gunky which makes it more difficult for your refrigerator to run efficiently.
3. Oven- Not my favorite, but has to be done, especially if you’ve had spills cooking or baking those delicious treats for the season. Whether you choose to use an oven cleaner or opt for a natural solution, make sure you have a pair of rubber gloves handy. Remove racks before starting. If you’re interested in a natural solution, here’s some to try:  Oven Cleaner- ½ C Baking Soda, 3 Tablespoons water. Mix in a small bowl then use scrub brush and sponge. For Degreasing your Oven try 1 C White Vinegar, baking soda, and water. First put water in the spray bottle and spray your oven. Sprinkle baking soda onto the wet areas and let stand for about an hour. Empty the water from the spray bottle and put in the vinegar. Spritz the vinegar onto the baking soda and it will begin to bubble. Use a sponge to wipe away all residue.
4. Stove Hood- This is one area that captures a lot of greases, so it needs a great cleaning after the holidays. Use your cleaning solution and hot water to submerge the filter for 20 minutes. Then scrub clean and replace back into the hood.
5. Bathrooms- Whether you’ve just entertained for an evening or two or had overnight guests for days at a time, your bathrooms are in desperate need of a deep clean and sanitizing. Again, mix your favorite cleaning solution with hot water, grab some clean towels and wipe down counters, drawers, handles, toilet surfaces, and tub & shower. Once finished, spray on a sanitizing solution and let dry. Next using a sanitizing cleaner, scrub toilets until they sparkle.

Have your home needs changed in the past year? Perhaps you’ve outgrown your present home, or need to downsize to a more suitable home. If you’re ready to make a move, let’s connect and talk about all the amazing opportunities that are available to you!

Now that the winter season is upon us, it is important to ensure one of your most valuable assets is protected during this frigid period. Ice dams are a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of your roof from the water of melting snow that is draining off your roof. The water that can back up behind the dam can then leak into your home and cause damage to ceilings, insulation, and walls. If that were to happen it can also cause a buildup of mold & mildew and lead to respiratory issues.

If surface temperatures of the roof are not uniform in nature, this will cause melting to occur in spots and water to run down the roof and freeze again in the areas that are below 32 degrees. What causes uneven roof temperatures? Heat loss from your home, combined with snow covering the roof, combines to increase the likelihood of ice dams forming.

What can you do to prevent ice dams?

1. Make sure the ceilings in your rooms are air-tight and no warm air can flow into the attic. The attic space needs to remain at an even cool temperature.
2. If you find any areas of leakage, seal them immediately.
3. You may also want to consider additional ceiling and roof insulation. Consulting with a professional on the grade and amount would be advised.
4. Always remove excess snow from your roof. Roof rakes & push brooms can be used for this purpose, however, depending on the roof, could damage roofing materials. Consulting with your roofing professional would be a quick phone call and could potentially save money in the future.

Roofs built to code should not have a problem handling the snow load, but removing the snow helps with the temperature control of your roof and the possible formation of dams. Warning signs- watch for the formation of the ice edge and icicles.  While icicles look beautiful in the glistening sun, they can also be a sign that heat is escaping your home.

Doing an inspection now could save you many headaches and expenses later. Additionally, sealing any escaping heat will also help you save on your heating costs for the season.

As always, we recommend you speak with a contractor or roofing professional for advice when dealing with an ice dam or roofing issue.

If you are looking for a reference for a great local professional, please reach out to our team. We work with trusted local professionals and have a vast network at our fingertips.

Today more than ever we are all looking for ways to save money and one of our largest expenditures is our mortgage. While monthly budgets can get tight, utilizing a little extra money to pay down our largest expenditures can pay off BIG in the end. Here we’re going to look at ‘principal only’ mortgage payments and the effect they can have on your finances.

When you purchase a home and secure a mortgage through a lender, you are paying several components of that mortgage.

1. The principal- the amount of the loan needed to purchase the home.
2. Interest on that loan- a monthly interest payment calculated on the interest rate accessed to the loan.
3. If you put down less than 20% you are also paying PMI (private mortgage insurance)
4. Property taxes
5. You may also have your Homeowners Insurance tied into the loan as well and pay a monthly premium for that.

These 5 components make up your monthly mortgage payment. However, the principal component of the mortgage represents the amount of equity you accrue each month and essentially ‘buy-back’ from your mortgage lender.

If you currently have a 30-year mortgage, and never make any additional payments, it will take you 30 years to pay off the mortgage in full and pay the full amount of interest associated with the mortgage. For example, a $350,000 loan with a 5% interest rate would be $17,500 a year paid in interest alone!!!

By making a principal-only payment, in addition to your monthly mortgage payment, you are paying down the principal amount of your mortgage faster. If you were to pay a $100 principal-only payment today at the 5% interest rate, you’ll save $332 over 30 years. Now imagine doing that every month, or more if you can. It will put equity in your pocket much quicker, pay off the principal and loan faster and save you thousands of dollars in interest over the course of your loan.

Please don’t confuse making additional mortgage payments with a principal-only payment, as they are very different. If you choose to start making principal-only payments- in addition to your regular monthly mortgage loan payment, we suggest you call your lender and have them walk you through the process, so it is done correctly, and the monies are applied appropriately. Remember, a principal-only payment NEVER takes the place of your regular monthly loan payment. That must always be made monthly and on time. This would be an additional payment to help pay down the principal amount of your loan. Any questions regarding your loan should ALWAYS be directed to your lender.

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Are you looking for a home in the Omaha area right now? Our team is ready to be our local experience knowledge and expertise to work for you!  If you’re ready to begin the exciting home-buying journey, reach out!  The Heim-Berg Team- 402-677-9024

Did you know that Fall is a great time to de-clutter your home? As we begin to approach the holidays and the extra guests they bring, it is the best time to rid your home of all those unused, unwanted, and extra items. However, too often many of us fall prey to these mistakes before we even begin the task! Let’s check them out to ensure we maximize our efforts and really make the de-cluttering task worthwhile.

1. Work at your own pace. Stop looking at the clock. This cannot be stressed enough. Too many times we put unreasonable expectations on ourselves when we set out to de-clutter our homes. If we really want to get rid of unnecessary or unused items, we must take our time to do it right. That means taking off the watch and pacing ourselves.
2. Make a plan. What are you trying to achieve? If you don’t know, it's going to be hard to stay motivated to keep going! Are you striving for a more orderly home? Easier ways to keep your home clean and organized? Or really want to get rid of the unused and unneeded items in your home…maybe to downsize? Whatever your reason is, define it first.
3. Storing de-cluttered items. This is a biggie! How often have you “de-cluttered” a room, only to move those items to another room, closet, or storage box? If you answered yes, you’re not alone. If you think about it, this really defeats the whole idea of de-cluttering because you’re just moving the objects from one location to another.  Instead, what you need to do is divide these items into 3 different categories: selling, donating, or going into the trash. Once you’ve done this, the task becomes much simpler. Go room by room and divide into one of each category, then get those items out of your home as quickly as possible. Otherwise, you’ll start going through them again and want to put them into storage boxes or closets and start the whole cluttering process again.
4. Engaging others in the process. While family members are obviously part of the process in a home, don’t go outside that circle in soliciting advice on what to keep and not. Everyone will have differing opinions and it's only your opinion that counts. You will end up keeping many more unwanted, needed, or unused items when soliciting outside advice.
5. Lastly, stop buying things you really don’t need! That may sound obvious, but how many times do we shop and impulse buy? That tends to give us many items we may use a few times and then find ourselves looking for places to store them. Also, try tracking spending and see where your dollars are going and what you really need.  It’s also a dynamite way to save money!

The holidays are just around the corner, so getting our homes deep cleaned and super organized now will be a game changer as the days arrive. Not to mention to peace and calm it brings into our homes. Happy de-cluttering!!

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