Summer is here, and as the temperatures rise, the basement can become one of the coolest and most comfortable spaces in the home. But when it is filled with boxes, furniture and items you no longer use, it can be difficult to enjoy that extra space. The basement is also filled with memories and objects that we are no longer using whether it be luggage, kitchen items, kids items, work benches with tools or even forgotten food items. If you are feeling overwhelmed with your basement we’re here to help!
This month, I am sharing a proud moment, a few simple ways to make your basement feel more open and functional, along with an update from our community, information about online auctions and details about my presentations for seniors groups.
A Proud Personal Moment
My new bus bench ad is up in my community! I did one last year but it was not seen by enough people so I decided to move it more local and change up the photos to one that was done recently by https://www.michellemacleodphotography.com. It was a fun moment to sit beside it and a wonderful reminder that our business continues to grow and reach more people in the community. I am grateful to be able to support local families through downsizing, decluttering, estate clearing and major life transitions.
5 Ways to Create More Space in Your Basement
1. Start with one small area.
Choose one book shelf, corner, box or storage bin. Trying to organize the entire basement at once can feel overwhelming, so give yourself one manageable place to begin.
2. Remove the easy items first.
Start with anything that is clearly garbage, broken, expired or ready for recycling. These quick decisions can help you see progress right away.
3. Group similar items together.
Place seasonal decorations, tools, keepsakes, household supplies and sports equipment into separate categories and label them. This will help you see how much you have and identify duplicates.
4. Ask when you last used it.
When you find something you have not used in several years, ask yourself whether it still deserves space in your home. It may be time to sell, donate or let it go.
5. Decide how you want to use the space.
Would you like your basement to become a family room, guest area, home office, hobby space or simply a cool place to relax during the hot summer? Having a clear purpose for the space can make decisions easier.
Remember, you do not need to finish everything in one day. A few small steps can make a big difference.
Downsizing or Clearing Out a Home? Consider an Online Auction!
We often partner with online auction platforms like BidRush to help clients sell items during a downsizing, estate clearout or major life transition. BidRush, https://bidrush.com/canada, makes it easier to connect unwanted items with local buyers through an online bidding process. This can help clients sell a larger number of items, reduce waste and give belongings a second home. With one scheduled pickup at the end of the auction, it can also make the clearout process more organized and manageable. Our latest auction is now available here:
https://bidrush.com/auctions/burlington-on-downsizing-4ymu9w
It features many antiques and vintage collectibles and is great for finding items not readily available (plus always better to buy second hand in my opinion.
A Client Story That Says It All
We were referred to this client by a realtor we work with and she was moving from an apartment to a retirement home. She was not mobile enough to do the work but made tons of great decisions and my team acted on them. We decluttered, packed her up, moved her and took items to the dump and donation and then unpacked her. We were even able to sell some of her items to help pay for the services which is something we can do for clients while we are working with them.
I highly recommend Clutter Relief Services! They were so organized and helpful to me in my move as I was unable to do it myself. Judy and her staff were efficient and so kind and respectful of me and my belongings. I felt as though they were family helping me. This experience made a potentially difficult move actually a pleasant one. Thank you so much!!
-Pat Adamson
Join Me at the next Empower Senior Event:
I am looking forward to participating in the upcoming Empower Senior event and connecting with seniors, families and community members.
I am always available after the talk to chat with people about how we can support and prepare them through downsizing and other important life transitions.
August’s talk will be presented by Marion Goard and will be about Where will you Live Nextt? Exploring Housing Options as We Age.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE EVENT: https://mariongoard.ca/seniors/empowered.aspx#Event-Registration
Looking for a Speaker for Your Seniors Group?
I have had the opportunity to present to a variety of seniors groups and community organizations on topics such as downsizing, decluttering, preparing for a move and creating a safer, more manageable home.
My presentations are practical, supportive and designed to help people feel less overwhelmed about where to begin.
If your group or organization is looking for a speaker, I would love to connect.
Let’s Stay Connected!
If you haven’t already, we’d love to welcome you into our private Facebook community, a friendly space to share your progress, get encouragement, and pick up new organizing tips.
And finally, don’t forget about our amazing Referral Program!
When your referral becomes a client, you can earn up to $200 in grocery or gas gift cards.
And if you haven’t yet, please follow me on Instagram for more inspiration, tips, special offers, and upcoming events!
As always, if you or someone you know needs help with downsizing, estate clearing, decluttering or organizing a home, my team and I are here to support you.
Wishing you a wonderful and relaxing summer.
With gratitude,
Judy