What to Get Rid of Before Selling Your House

Getting ready to sell your home? One of the most important — and often overlooked — steps is decluttering. A clean, open space not only makes your home look more appealing but also helps potential buyers imagine themselves living there.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you should toss, donate, or pack away before you put that “For Sale” sign in the yard.

1. Personal Items: Create a Blank Slate

Buyers want to picture their life in your home — not yours. That means tucking away anything overly personal, including:

Family photos
Personalized decor (monogrammed items, name signs)
Trophies, certificates, and memorabilia (some exceptions for anything Oilers related)
Collections or souvenirs

2. Excess Furniture: Less is More

Too much furniture makes rooms feel smaller. Create space and flow by removing:

Bulky or outdated pieces
Worn or damaged furniture
Extra chairs or small tables that add clutter

3. Closets: Show Off Your Storage

Storage is a top priority for buyers. Overstuffed closets look like they lack space. Make yours shine by removing:

Out-of-season clothing
Extra shoes, bags, and accessories
Old linens, towels, or unused bedding

Tip: Leave about 25–50% empty space in each closet to make them look roomy.

4. Kitchen Clutter: Clear Those Counters

A cluttered kitchen can make even the biggest space feel cramped. Pare down:

Duplicate or rarely used kitchen gadgets
Excess dishes, cups, and cookware
Expired food and half-used spices
Refrigerator magnets, notes, or artwork

Aim for clean, empty counters with just a few stylish essentials (like a fruit bowl or coffee maker).

5. Bathroom Extras: Simplify and Freshen Up

Bathrooms should feel spa-like. Keep them clean and minimal by removing:

Half-used toiletries and personal items
Old towels or worn-out rugs
Unnecessary cleaning products
Expired medicines (dispose of responsibly!)

6. Garage and Storage Areas: Declutter the Catch-All Spaces

Buyers want to see functional storage — not a mess. Focus on:

Tossing broken tools, garden gear, and holiday decorations
Getting rid of old paint, chemicals, and hazardous waste
Donating or discarding items you haven’t touched in over a year
Organizing what’s left in labeled bins or shelves

7. Kids’ and Pets’ Stuff: Minimize the Chaos

While your home should feel lived-in, it shouldn’t feel overwhelmed. Clear away:

Extra or large toys (especially noisy ones)
Pet beds, litter boxes, and feeding stations (or tuck them away during showings)
Children’s artwork or school papers on display

8. Décor and Miscellaneous: Keep It Neutral

Finally, keep things fresh and buyer-friendly by removing:

Political or religious items
Seasonal decor (unless it’s current and tasteful)
Too many throw pillows or layered rugs
Rugs covering hardwood or tile floors you want to highlight

Final Tip: Think Like a Buyer

Walk through your home with fresh eyes — or better yet, have a friend do it. If it doesn’t add beauty or function, it might be time to say goodbye.

Decluttering isn’t just about cleaning — it’s about creating space for someone else’s story to begin.