How to sell a family-friendly home

Got cute kids? Then you’ve probably got some not-so-cute clutter. If toys and trinkets are taking center stage while you’re trying to sell your home, here are some simple steps to curb the chaos.

Donate and recycle. If you’re looking to reduce your toy stock, here is a great opportunity to teach your children about charitable giving and recycling. Encourage your kids to take an inventory of their toys, and to give away things they no longer want or need. Take a trip to a local charitable donation center so that they can see and understand where their gift is going. Toys that are too damaged for a second home can then be recycled. It’s a great life lesson that will give them a sense of pride.

Rotate the stock. Sometimes little ones don’t like to part with their big toys, so storing away a few bulky items will make a difference. Get some storage bins to stash large toys in the attic or basement while still keeping their favorites on hand. Each week, take a big item out of storage and replace it with another one. You’ll reduce your toy footprint and the kids’ old goodies will seem new again.

Carve out visible storage space. With the remaining toys, organize a playroom or toy nook, and line it with shelves, decorative bins or drawers. Display collections of dolls or other toys that celebrate your children’s interests and create a focal point for kid-friendly spaces.

If your family’s toy collection looks neat and clean, prospective buyers will be thrilled to envision clever storage options for their own little ones.