DECLUTTER! DECLUTTER! DECLUTTER!
This is the perfect time to take stock of the items that are important and useful to you vs. the items you no longer need or use. As you empty your cabinets, drawers, and closets sort and store them by category. Items that have out lived their usefulness should be set aside to sell, donate or trash. Items you will use regularly during your project should be placed in accessible storage boxes. I recommend using clear boxes to make it easier to see what is stored inside. Seldom used items can be packed and stored in basements and/or closets. Clearly label all your boxes to create ease for the post renovation resettling.
CHECK EXPIRATION DATES
Check all the expiration dates on food products and medications. Properly dispose of the items that have expired or will expire during the renovation period. Make a list of the items that need to be replaced now and those that can wait until after the renovation.
RECYCLE NEWSPAPERS AND MAGAZINES
We seldom go back and read out of date publications despite our best intentions. As a result, those piles of newspapers and magazines seem to multiply overnight. You can access most publications on-line freeing you to recycle the paper versions.
SETTING UP TEMPORARY LOCATIONS (KITCHENS, HOME OFFICES, PLAY AREAS, HOMEWORK STATIONS)
Many rooms in our homes serve multiple functions. Kitchens in particular do double and triple duty. In addition to food preparation and a place for the family to gather, kitchens may be home-offices, play areas or homework stations. Plan in advance where each function can be relocated and equip that space with the essentials necessary to perform those tasks. Additionally, portable storage containers or storage solutions on wheels give you flexibility to move from room to room. Most of my clients use a combination of the two strategies depending on the space(s) being renovated. It is helpful to prepare a chart indicating where each function is moving to help decrease the feelings of dislocation.
STORAGE UNITS / PODS
I have two words if you are embarking on a renovation that will necessitate moving your belongings into either a temporary storage unit or Pod. INVENTORY LIST. I know this is time consuming but trust me, it will truly give you peace of mind when you know where each of your stored belongings is located. Number each box, write a general description on the box and to what room that box will be going post renovation. On your inventory list, enter all box numbers and a detailed content description of each box.
There is no magic wand to take away all the disruption and inconvenience a major renovation creates. But careful pre-planning and organizing will reduce these factors and make the resettling process go smoothly. I hope you try these tips and enjoy your beautiful new home.