When someone is getting ready to sell their home and we start to look at what they need to do to get it ready, number one on the list is often decluttering! All of us accumulate an awful lot of stuff over the years. But when faced with the need to get it out of the way many people are overwhelmed. They don't know what to do with the stuff or where to start.

So, here are some suggestions. And I suggest being ruthless when trying to determine how much to clear out. Get rid of everything you can stand to pack up or eliminate. Then go back and get rid of that same amount again!

First the easy solutions:

You're moving anyway so pack it up now! Put it in moving boxes (appropriate labeled!) and store it. Ideally, you should rent a storage unit.  If you are agressive enough at clearing stuff out you'll net more money than the storage unit will cost you!

If you really, really can't or won't rent a storage unit, put the boxes in the garage. Or store them with friends or realtives. And, as a last resort, put them in the basement.

Now the harder remedies:

• Have a garage sale
• Sell it on ebay
• Give it away through freecycle
• Donate it to a charitable organization
• Sell it on Craigs List
• Sell it in Valley Trader (vtfreead@visuallink.com)
• Take it to the landfill (Last resort)

OK, that should get you started! Trust me, you'll feel better when it's done. And, I know your house will sell better!

What avenues for disposal have I missed? Tell me your favorites!