Clear the Chaos - Austin Real Estate Agent

Clear the Chaos

/ Home Maintenance, Lifestyle, Real Estate / By
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Clear the Chaos

If you’ve ever looked around your home and felt buried under piles of “stuff,” you’re in good company. Clutter has become a national epidemic—and the numbers don’t lie. A staggering 1 in 4 Americans can’t use their garage for its intended purpose because it’s filled with excess belongings. Even more alarming? Nearly 50% of U.S. households admit to having at least one room that’s completely unusable due to clutter.

This is an image of a garage full of clutter.

 

 

 

 

 

Clutter is costing us more than just square footage.

According to recent studies, the average person spends 16 minutes a day searching for misplaced items. That adds up to almost two hours a week—and over 60 hours a year—just trying to find things we already own. Not only does this lead to wasted time, but it also increases stress, reduces productivity, and can even impact our overall well-being.

Why Do We Accumulate So Much Stuff?

Between impulse purchases, sentimental items, and the fast pace of modern life, it’s easy to see how clutter sneaks in. We hold onto things “just in case,” or because we don’t have the time (or energy) to deal with them. Before we know it, our homes become storage units instead of peaceful, functional spaces.

Clear Space, Clear Mind

Reduce stress and chaos with these tips to bring more calm into your life.

  • Commit to weekly decluttering, even if it’s just a single drawer or closet.
  • Start by tossing easy, obvious items (e.g., mystery cords, old takeout menus, expired products, orphan storage lids).
  • Take photos of sentimental items you don’t have room for, then sell, donate or toss.
  • Call a local nonprofit (The Salvation Army or AMVETS) to come pick up items for donation.
  • Be honest with yourself. Does an item still fit into your lifestyle? Or do you feel “obligated” to keep it?

This is an image of a woman sitting on the floor organizing clutter into 3 boxes; keep, donate and discard.

 

 

Ready to Reclaim Your Space?

If your garage, spare room, or even your kitchen counter is out of control, know that change is possible. Start with one small step today—your future self will thank you.

Whether you’re prepping your home to sell or simply craving a calmer, more functional space, decluttering is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to make your home feel like new.

Don’t Forget to Do a Digital Detox

Put on a favorite show or music and then…

  • Clean out your inbox: set a timer for 15 min.
  • Unsubscribe from newsletters, promotions, etc.
  • Delete apps you don’t use.

If you have any questions, I’m here to offer clear, concise information you can trust. I can also connect you with a reliable home cleaner or professional organizer from my network if you need extra help with home maintenance or organization.

Sources: 1. talker.news/2024/09/04/half-of-americans-think-at-least-one-room-in-their-home-is-unsalvageable/ 2. apa.org/news/podcasts/speaking-of-psychology/clutter 3. prnewswire.com/news-releases/study-reveals-clutter-epidemic-cause-low-self-esteem-300814777.htm 4. shaneco.com/theloupe/articles-and-news/stuff-each-loses-the most/

For a printable version of this newsletter, click here. 

 

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