Getting Your Home Renovation Ready

Most people don’t realize how much “stuff” they have accumulated over the years until they start preparing for something like a renovation.

By taking the time to organize and purge before the renovation begins, you not only make the process easier but also set the stage for a fresh start.

Check out these tips to help you declutter, organize, and donate so you can focus on the excitement of your renovation.

Make a Plan

Before you start packing or purging, assess the space you’ll be renovating. Ask yourself the following:

• What rooms will be impacted? Will you need to relocate items from multiple rooms or just one? Decide where you’ll be storing the items you’re keeping, and designate space to place things for donation or sale.
• What will you do with the things you no longer need? You likely have items that are still in serviceable condition and can be donated or sold. Identify organizations accepting donations or places to advertise things for sale.
• What supplies do you need? Gather boxes, tape, markers, and packing paper to organize and protect items from breakage. Keep a measuring tape and notepad handy to jot down the details of items you’ll sell.

Give Yourself Plenty of Time

The key to a successful purge is to start early. Ideally, begin the process at least two months before your renovation is set to begin. This gives you ample time to sort through your belongings without feeling rushed.

Here’s a suggested timeline:

• 8 weeks before renovation: Start with storage areas like the basement, attic, or garage. These spaces often hold items you haven’t used in years.
• 6 weeks before renovation: Move on to closets, cabinets, and other hidden storage in the rooms being renovated.
• 4 weeks before renovation: Begin packing up items that you’ll need to store during the renovation.
• 2 weeks before renovation: Finalize your purging process and prepare for temporary relocation if needed.

Sort Items into Categories

As you go through your things, assign each item to one of the following categories:

Keep: Items that you use regularly and want to keep in your renovated space.

Store: Items that you don’t use daily but want to keep (e.g., seasonal decorations, keepsakes). 

Donate: Items that are in good condition but no longer serve a purpose in your home.

Sell: If you have valuable items that you no longer need, consider selling them online or through a garage sale.

Dispose: Items that are broken, damaged, or no longer usable.

Sorting as you go helps you stay focused on the task at hand. Once everything has been categorized, you can deal with each group of items more efficiently—why make several trips to the donation centre when you can take everything at once?

Clear your clutter for a successful renovation

Renovations are the perfect opportunity to declutter and organize. By putting in a bit of work to prepare, your renovation can get off to a smooth start. Then, once your renovation is complete, you’ll be able to enjoy your new space to the fullest.