When you're getting ready to sell your home, how you handle storage can make or break a buyer’s first impression. Cluttered spaces can feel cramped, while well-organized storage can show off your home’s potential. And no, you can't just shove everything into closets or the garage and hope for the best. Buyers will likely open doors, peek into cabinets, and evaluate every square foot of usable space during the open house. So, what storage dos and don'ts do you need to know before listing your property? Let's assess!
Storage do's and don'ts to keep in mind as you prepare to sell
#1 Do: Declutter, don’t overstuff
What is the first rule of storage when selling your home? Declutter. This doesn’t imply hiding things behind closed doors—it means deciding what stays, what goes, and what gets packed up early. The goal is to make every space feel spacious and functional. Besides, overstuffed spaces will only make buyers think your home lacks storage.
Start by going room to room with a few large bins. Sort items into three categories:
Having trouble deciding what to keep? Think about it this way: If you haven’t used something in the last year, it’s probably time to either pack it away or donate it.
#1 Don't: Leave personal items on display
While decluttering is important, avoiding leaving personal items in plain sight is just as crucial. Buyers want to imagine themselves living in the home, not feel like they’re walking through someone else’s life. Family photos, keepsakes, and even certain décor pieces can distract them from focusing on the space.
Pack away anything that could make the home feel too personal. The objective is to create a neutral, inviting atmosphere that appeals to many buyers. Think about how model homes are staged—minimal personal touches, yet still welcoming. They are like a blank canvas that potential buyers can envision painting any way they like.
#2 Do: Use storage units wisely
Have you decluttered but still have more belongings than your home can handle? Think about renting a storage unit. This is especially helpful for larger pieces of furniture that can make rooms look smaller. By temporarily storing these items offsite, you can create a more spacious and appealing environment.
If you’re planning a long-distance relocation, such as moving from Florida to Seattle, renting a storage unit can also help you organize the transition. It allows you to pack away items and prioritize what stays behind slowly. Plus, preparing for a big move gives you time to arrange a safe relocation without worrying about cramming everything into a moving truck last minute.
#2 Don’t: Use every closet for storage
While it may be tempting to store everything in closets, most potential buyers will check them out. If your closets are packed to the brim, it signals to buyers that there isn’t enough storage space in the home. Instead, leave closets partially empty and neatly organized. This will help them envision their belongings fitting easily within space.
#3 Do: Highlight key storage areas
If your home has standout storage features, such as a walk-in pantry, attic, or basement, make sure they are highlighted and well-organized. These spaces can be major selling points, and buyers will pay close attention to their use. Organize these areas by using clear bins, shelves, or even labeling items to create a tidy look. If your basement or attic is filled with boxes, take some to your storage unit so buyers can appreciate the space's full potential.
#3 Don’t: Forget about the garage
The garage is often a forgotten space for decluttering, but those interested in purchasing your home will certainly want to see how much room they have to store cars, tools, and other belongings.
A cluttered garage filled with random items can be a huge turn-off, so take time to clear out unnecessary items and create a clean, organized look. Use shelving to keep items off the floor, and again, if needed, move excess belongings to your storage unit.
#4 Do: Pack seasonal items early
One easy way to create more space while preparing to sell is to pack away seasonal items well before the move. Winter coats in summer or beach gear in winter only add clutter to closets and storage areas. By getting ahead of the game and packing them early, you'll also remove personal items from the premises that may make it harder to sell. You'll have one less thing to worry about when the actual moving day comes around.
#4 Don’t: Overlook Outdoor Storage
It’s easy to forget about outdoor storage spaces when prepping the property for the home-buying process. But just like the garage, an organized outdoor storage area (e.g., a shed, storage bench, outdoor closet, etc.) shows potential buyers that your home is well-maintained inside and out.
So, don’t let these become a dumping ground for tools, bikes, or garden supplies. Instead, organize these spaces just like you would indoor areas. Place tools on hooks, stack outdoor furniture neatly and remove any clutter that doesn't belong.
Apply storage do's and don'ts and let your home speak for itself
Your home’s storage can either be a selling point or a setback—it depends on how you handle it. Thoughtfully decluttered spaces, organized closets, and clean storage areas make your home feel larger and more inviting. Use storage to your advantage, showcasing your home’s best features and allowing buyers to picture themselves in the space. When done right, storage isn’t just about keeping things out of sight—it’s about maximizing your home’s appeal and potential. So, take the time to prepare and learn from the above storage dos and don'ts, and you’ll find that your organized home speaks for itself.
