There will likely be a few times in your life when you feel you’ve outgrown your home or business. When more space is needed, the default thought is often to simply move and effectively buy more space.
However, needing more space doesn’t always mean that it’s time to move. It simply might be a sign that you need to declutter. This typically involves creating a strategic room-by-room list of things that you can live or work without. Are you on the proverbial fence, caught between a move and a declutter? If a move is on your mind, maybe it’s time to ask yourself a few key questions. If you are interested in considering the benefits and options for staying, then let’s consider a few declutter vs. moving scenarios.
The Total Cost of Declutter vs. Moving
Topping our declutter vs. moving list is probably the most obvious and certainly the most important point: cost. In today’s economy, many homeowners have “golden handcuffs” or low interest rates and financial incentive beyond their control to stay put. Even without a rate below current market rates, you’re usually looking at a more expensive home or business space when you’re looking for more space. If you’re not certain and are waffling over the question, “do I need to move or declutter?,” then cost is probably the primary factor for why you’re having that internal debate.
Beyond the cost of your destination compared to current expenses, you have to consider the cost of the move itself. Moving companies typically charge based on volume and weight. So, the more you own leading into the clutter problem, the more you will have to spend to relocate. At this point, a proper decluttering makes sense no matter your choice. So, you can either start with a declutter and end with a move or start and stop with a declutter.
What might it cost to declutter? Decluttering your home or workspace involves you and a number of filled boxes that are either put to the curb or donated to a particular cause. However, when decluttering makes more sense than moving, you might also find it useful to obtain a portable storage container. This can help you to better organize your efforts and on your own time and can present a long-term solution to freeing up space while avoiding a move. Either way, it should be clear that decluttering is often the more cost-effective choice.
How to Create Space Without Moving
If your need to move is facilitated for reasons other than space, then, of course, moving can be the right choice. However, if you just need extra space, decluttering is likely the best option. With that in mind, let’s consider how to create space without moving.
Many live by a simple rule: if they come across something they haven’t worn, used or seen in a year, it goes in a box and out the door. For hardcore hoarders, that might seem like an extreme rule. For most people, it serves as a useful guideline for decluttering. Obviously, there are exceptions such as luggage and family heirlooms, but the point is that a less-is-more approach is the healthier, easier choice when it comes to creating more space in your home or office.
You might also reconsider your current furniture situation. Sometimes, the removal of a worn or rarely used couch, chair or table can be a very effective way to create more space in your home or office. Larger items such as these can be donated to a good cause or, again, placed into a portable storage container as you consider alternative uses or placement for these selective pieces.
Proper Strategies for Decluttering
So far, it might read as though decluttering is a daunting task. However, the best strategy for decluttering is to tackle the task the same way you would by eating a figurative elephant: one small bite at a time. Let’s consider a few practical ways in which you can declutter like a pro and borrow from our metaphor focusing on one small task at a time.
When decluttering makes more sense than moving, you should commit to the task with a sharp and willing mind. Discipline is important. If you have to second-guess whether to keep something or not, it should likely top your declutter list. The most effective way to begin this process is to create actual work zones.
This process is simple: tackle one room at a time. This way, you aren’t overwhelmed with too many choices at once. If you planned your move accordingly and are not facing any big moving day deadlines, you have the luxury to take it easy to make it easy.
Another thought is to use the “Four Box Method.” Label boxes as “Keep,” “Donate,” “Sell” and “Trash” and fill accordingly. Again, it’s a simple system that helps to keep the process moving forward.
If you find that those boxes are filling up too quickly, then you might want to consider storage for decluttering homes. A portable storage container placed on your property is a great way to quickly declutter a house while also giving you more time to consider what to do with your belongings. This option will allow you the chance to create your own timetable and complete the task according to your own terms.
When it comes to a full declutter, don’t be afraid to think outside of the proverbial and literal box. Everyone has a different way to go about it. However, there are a few common strategies that seem to work well for almost everyone. You might even consider hosting your own packing party, which would make it more fun for everyone.
Are you stuck on the question of declutter vs. moving? Don’t overthink it. You might be surprised how easy and rewarding it can be to make just a little more room for yourself right where you are. With a bit of effort and imagination, you can make great things happen with your favorite spaces.
No matter your decision, SAM Store and Move is here to help. We have been serving DFW for more than 20 years. Our decades of experience mean that we have a solution for every conceivable storage and moving problem. We’ve seen it all and can make it all happen. When you’re ready to commit, we’re ready for the call. Contact us or get your free quote online.