Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes you different than other organizers?
A: My background in special education and psychology (particularly in the areas of ADD/ADHD, emotional disorders, and crisis management) have equipped me to be supportive and compassionate, while implementing strategies for success. There is no “one size fits all” in education OR in professional organizing.
Q: What sets your company apart from other organizing companies?
A: We are a full-service organizing company, which means we'll help you handle every task necessary when it comes to decluttering your space and getting it organized. Our work schedule is session-based so that you have a clear idea of WHEN your goals will be achieved. We'd prefer you to stay focused instead of nickle and diming your budget, so we offer packages of hours (at discounted rates) that include our Add-On services for FREE. You'll also have access to our list of network professionals to meet every need.
Q: How do I get started?
A: Fill out the form on the Contact page and I’ll call you to schedule your Clutter Assessment. During this free analysis, we’ll spend up to 30 minutes reviewing your area(s) of concern. You’ll tell me about what works and doesn’t work for the space. I’ll begin working on a plan to bring peace to your chaos based on your personality, organizational needs, and budget. You can choose to do-it-yourself at this point or we can implement these goals and strategies during the Organizing Sessions. Learn more about our services.
Q: Should I clean up before you come?
A: No. There is no need to clean up your space before your assessment or any of the organizing sessions! It’s best if I can see the space how it typically looks and functions with you in it. I promise there is nothing to be embarrassed about, because when I come into your space, I’m looking for solutions. We have a 100% No Judgement Guarantee!
Q: What does an Organizing Session look like?
A: Sessions are typically scheduled in 3 or 4 hour increments to make the best use of time and keep you on track to achieve your goals in the desired time frame. However, availability permitting, we can also accommodate 6 and 8 hour sessions, directly deducted from your package hours. With your input, I will start by sorting all the items in your space into like categories. From here, you'll be able to see which items are in excess (i.e., if you have 15 black cardigans and really only need 2) and make informed decisions on what to purge (donate, recycle, or toss). Next, I will return the items you sorted, but did not purge, to their most efficient and accessible storage locations. Finally, we'll discuss how to evaluate new items as they come into your space while guarding against new clutter. After we’ve decluttered and organized, you might need a few storage containers. My goal is to use what you’ve got, but if we need to look beyond that, I will suggest items that fit within your newly organized space and your budget. At the end of each session, I will offer to drop off any donated items to one of our Donation Partners and provide you with a tax deductible receipt.
Q: How long will it take to get organized?
A: Probably less time than you would have imagined! Each space is different and the rate of organization often depends on how quickly a person can make decisions. I have lots of tricks up my sleeve to make sure that each session is productive. I keep my clients on task, but I never rush a person or pressure them into getting rid of anything. If you need a short break, there’s always something I can do independently to keep the project moving forward. I guarantee that in 3 hours you will see a major and tangible improvement!
Q: Why would I need additional organizers?
A: Typically, our clients prefer to work one-on-one with the Clutter Coach herself; however, if you're on a tight deadline OR you want to get twice as much organizing done in the same amount of time, you'll want to use more organizers. We have our very own organizers that work exclusively for Upstate Clutter Coach. The hours used will be calculated at one hour per organizer and deducted directly from your Premium Package hours.
Q: Do the packages include the cost of organizing products?
A: No. The cost of organizational tools (beyond printed labels) is a separate fee, because you will likely want hangers, containers, liners, etc. that tie into your current design theme and unique budget.
Q: Do I have to throw my things away?
A: That decision is completely up to you. If clutter is interrupting your daily life and preventing you from attaining your goals, most likely, there will be items that need to be re-homed. However, you decide whether to donate, toss, or recycle. I promise to cheer you on as you let go of the things that you no longer need, use, or love; the things that are ultimately a barrier between you and the things you do love and use.
Q: I think I might be a hoarder. Can you help me?
A: Absolutely! I'm so proud of you for reaching out for help and wanting to change the course of your life. I'm not a licensed therapist or a doctor, so I cannot tell you whether or not you are a hoarder. However, I can connect you with organizers in the area that specialize in hoarding situations. Very often, the clutter in our lives reflects the internal clutter we're struggling with. If you need a recommendation for a support team/counselor, please contact me.
Q: Will you help me donate the things I choose to part with?
A: I have three partners that I regularly provide donations for: Miracle Hill Ministries, Goodwill Industries, and Soteria Community Development Corporation. My goal is to put your possessions to use; to bless others with your abundance. I will transport as much as can fit in my vehicle and coordinate a pick-up for larger items, if necessary. I will provide a tax receipt for these donations. For a list of SPECIFIC items that each of the Miracle Hill Ministries needs, click here and then select one of their eleven programs. You will find a button to the right of each page that links you to Volunteer/In-Kind (Supply) Needs. These lists are VERY helpful and will give you a head start on decluttering by blessing others.
Q: Do I need to be present during the sessions?
A: I will need your input in the beginning so that your decluttered space will be well suited to your personality and needs. After that, I can continue sorting and organizing based off your initial direction. There may be a few tweaks needed at the end of the project to ensure that it’s the best fit for you. If you would prefer to work alongside me, the job may go faster and you’ll learn some of the organizing strategies I use to give a space the order it deserves.
Q: Can my kids be home while we organize?
A: While I love children, I’ve found that it can be difficult to sort and organize when young kids are present. Your first and foremost obligation is to your children; as such, it may be difficult for you to concentrate on the organizational task at hand. Because you are paying by the hour, you may want to arrange for a sitter to get the most “bang for your buck” while we work. Older children, however, may be present and can even be an asset to the project, particularly if we’re working on their room!
Q: Is our work together confidential?
A: Absolutely! I abide by the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO). Everything you share will be held in strictest confidentiality on my behalf. If you are interested in sharing a testimonial, I will only post or speak of the information that you choose to share with others.
Q: Are you insured?
A: Yes, we maintain a general liability policy.
Q: Should I hire a professional organizer before listing my home?
A: If you’re working with a realtor, give them a call right now and ask them what the expected price reduction is for a home like yours if it sits on the market too long. The typical price reduction is anywhere between $3,000 to $50,000! Is the luxury of having all your loved (and unloved) items within arms reach worth that amount?! Probably not. When it’s time to sell your home, you are wanting to sell your SPACE not your stuff. We’ll declutter the space you’ve loved and make it appealing for buyers.
Q: Is there a travel fee?
A: Travel is included at no additional cost up to a 60 minute round trip. Additional travel time will be billed in quarter hour increments (i.e., an additional 15 minutes is $15). This fee can be prepaid when purchasing a package or paid on each date of service.
Q: Do you have a cancellation policy?
A: When you make an appointment with us for a consultation or an organizing session, we reserve that time especially for you. Since that time is held for you, we respectfully ask for a minimum of 24 hours notice if you must cancel an appointment. This courtesy enables us to offer that appointment time to another client. We will attempt to confirm the appointment time with you two days in advance so that you've got plenty of time to let us know if there's been a change in plans. A cancellation fee will be charged to the payment method on file, or against any prepaid plan, for any late cancellations or no-show appointments ($25 for consultation and $100 for organizing sessions). A credit card may be required to book future appointments after cancellation if we do not already have payment information on file.
Q: How do I pay for your services?
A: Payment is collected at the end of each work day for single sessions. If you are purchasing a Premium Package, payment for the entire package is due at the first session. We accept cash, check, all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express), Venmo, and PayPal.
A: My background in special education and psychology (particularly in the areas of ADD/ADHD, emotional disorders, and crisis management) have equipped me to be supportive and compassionate, while implementing strategies for success. There is no “one size fits all” in education OR in professional organizing.
Q: What sets your company apart from other organizing companies?
A: We are a full-service organizing company, which means we'll help you handle every task necessary when it comes to decluttering your space and getting it organized. Our work schedule is session-based so that you have a clear idea of WHEN your goals will be achieved. We'd prefer you to stay focused instead of nickle and diming your budget, so we offer packages of hours (at discounted rates) that include our Add-On services for FREE. You'll also have access to our list of network professionals to meet every need.
Q: How do I get started?
A: Fill out the form on the Contact page and I’ll call you to schedule your Clutter Assessment. During this free analysis, we’ll spend up to 30 minutes reviewing your area(s) of concern. You’ll tell me about what works and doesn’t work for the space. I’ll begin working on a plan to bring peace to your chaos based on your personality, organizational needs, and budget. You can choose to do-it-yourself at this point or we can implement these goals and strategies during the Organizing Sessions. Learn more about our services.
Q: Should I clean up before you come?
A: No. There is no need to clean up your space before your assessment or any of the organizing sessions! It’s best if I can see the space how it typically looks and functions with you in it. I promise there is nothing to be embarrassed about, because when I come into your space, I’m looking for solutions. We have a 100% No Judgement Guarantee!
Q: What does an Organizing Session look like?
A: Sessions are typically scheduled in 3 or 4 hour increments to make the best use of time and keep you on track to achieve your goals in the desired time frame. However, availability permitting, we can also accommodate 6 and 8 hour sessions, directly deducted from your package hours. With your input, I will start by sorting all the items in your space into like categories. From here, you'll be able to see which items are in excess (i.e., if you have 15 black cardigans and really only need 2) and make informed decisions on what to purge (donate, recycle, or toss). Next, I will return the items you sorted, but did not purge, to their most efficient and accessible storage locations. Finally, we'll discuss how to evaluate new items as they come into your space while guarding against new clutter. After we’ve decluttered and organized, you might need a few storage containers. My goal is to use what you’ve got, but if we need to look beyond that, I will suggest items that fit within your newly organized space and your budget. At the end of each session, I will offer to drop off any donated items to one of our Donation Partners and provide you with a tax deductible receipt.
Q: How long will it take to get organized?
A: Probably less time than you would have imagined! Each space is different and the rate of organization often depends on how quickly a person can make decisions. I have lots of tricks up my sleeve to make sure that each session is productive. I keep my clients on task, but I never rush a person or pressure them into getting rid of anything. If you need a short break, there’s always something I can do independently to keep the project moving forward. I guarantee that in 3 hours you will see a major and tangible improvement!
Q: Why would I need additional organizers?
A: Typically, our clients prefer to work one-on-one with the Clutter Coach herself; however, if you're on a tight deadline OR you want to get twice as much organizing done in the same amount of time, you'll want to use more organizers. We have our very own organizers that work exclusively for Upstate Clutter Coach. The hours used will be calculated at one hour per organizer and deducted directly from your Premium Package hours.
Q: Do the packages include the cost of organizing products?
A: No. The cost of organizational tools (beyond printed labels) is a separate fee, because you will likely want hangers, containers, liners, etc. that tie into your current design theme and unique budget.
Q: Do I have to throw my things away?
A: That decision is completely up to you. If clutter is interrupting your daily life and preventing you from attaining your goals, most likely, there will be items that need to be re-homed. However, you decide whether to donate, toss, or recycle. I promise to cheer you on as you let go of the things that you no longer need, use, or love; the things that are ultimately a barrier between you and the things you do love and use.
Q: I think I might be a hoarder. Can you help me?
A: Absolutely! I'm so proud of you for reaching out for help and wanting to change the course of your life. I'm not a licensed therapist or a doctor, so I cannot tell you whether or not you are a hoarder. However, I can connect you with organizers in the area that specialize in hoarding situations. Very often, the clutter in our lives reflects the internal clutter we're struggling with. If you need a recommendation for a support team/counselor, please contact me.
Q: Will you help me donate the things I choose to part with?
A: I have three partners that I regularly provide donations for: Miracle Hill Ministries, Goodwill Industries, and Soteria Community Development Corporation. My goal is to put your possessions to use; to bless others with your abundance. I will transport as much as can fit in my vehicle and coordinate a pick-up for larger items, if necessary. I will provide a tax receipt for these donations. For a list of SPECIFIC items that each of the Miracle Hill Ministries needs, click here and then select one of their eleven programs. You will find a button to the right of each page that links you to Volunteer/In-Kind (Supply) Needs. These lists are VERY helpful and will give you a head start on decluttering by blessing others.
Q: Do I need to be present during the sessions?
A: I will need your input in the beginning so that your decluttered space will be well suited to your personality and needs. After that, I can continue sorting and organizing based off your initial direction. There may be a few tweaks needed at the end of the project to ensure that it’s the best fit for you. If you would prefer to work alongside me, the job may go faster and you’ll learn some of the organizing strategies I use to give a space the order it deserves.
Q: Can my kids be home while we organize?
A: While I love children, I’ve found that it can be difficult to sort and organize when young kids are present. Your first and foremost obligation is to your children; as such, it may be difficult for you to concentrate on the organizational task at hand. Because you are paying by the hour, you may want to arrange for a sitter to get the most “bang for your buck” while we work. Older children, however, may be present and can even be an asset to the project, particularly if we’re working on their room!
Q: Is our work together confidential?
A: Absolutely! I abide by the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO). Everything you share will be held in strictest confidentiality on my behalf. If you are interested in sharing a testimonial, I will only post or speak of the information that you choose to share with others.
Q: Are you insured?
A: Yes, we maintain a general liability policy.
Q: Should I hire a professional organizer before listing my home?
A: If you’re working with a realtor, give them a call right now and ask them what the expected price reduction is for a home like yours if it sits on the market too long. The typical price reduction is anywhere between $3,000 to $50,000! Is the luxury of having all your loved (and unloved) items within arms reach worth that amount?! Probably not. When it’s time to sell your home, you are wanting to sell your SPACE not your stuff. We’ll declutter the space you’ve loved and make it appealing for buyers.
Q: Is there a travel fee?
A: Travel is included at no additional cost up to a 60 minute round trip. Additional travel time will be billed in quarter hour increments (i.e., an additional 15 minutes is $15). This fee can be prepaid when purchasing a package or paid on each date of service.
Q: Do you have a cancellation policy?
A: When you make an appointment with us for a consultation or an organizing session, we reserve that time especially for you. Since that time is held for you, we respectfully ask for a minimum of 24 hours notice if you must cancel an appointment. This courtesy enables us to offer that appointment time to another client. We will attempt to confirm the appointment time with you two days in advance so that you've got plenty of time to let us know if there's been a change in plans. A cancellation fee will be charged to the payment method on file, or against any prepaid plan, for any late cancellations or no-show appointments ($25 for consultation and $100 for organizing sessions). A credit card may be required to book future appointments after cancellation if we do not already have payment information on file.
Q: How do I pay for your services?
A: Payment is collected at the end of each work day for single sessions. If you are purchasing a Premium Package, payment for the entire package is due at the first session. We accept cash, check, all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express), Venmo, and PayPal.
