Decluttering to Make the Sale

See how the experts stage a home that was hardly unpacked since the last move.

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Hide CaptionShow CaptionThis family is getting ready to move to Texas but the inside of their home is in serious need of some design help if they are ever going to get it sold.

- After: Clutter-Free and Stylish

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Homeowners Christina, Jay and their 5-year-old daughter have decided to pack up and move to Texas for a slower pace of life. They just moved into their current home about a year ago, but they never really unpacked. The problem: these people are excessive clutter bugs! They have boxes and suitcases piled high throughout the house. This home needs some serious decluttering before any for-sale signs can be erected.

Real estate expert Donna Freeman pays a visit to check out this home's sales viability. She loves the home's exterior — it looks great. Upon entering the house, though, she is shocked. The place is such a mess, she wonders if it was vandalized! Freeman has not one good word to say about the living room. The dining room has no dining table, is filled with miscellaneous junk and two large televisions. In the kitchen, Freeman comments on the abundance of clutter. She is also confused as to why the dining table is in the family room and the breakfast nook is being used as a craft area.

Designer Lisa LaPorta is a decluttering guru. She has the perfect plan to turn Freeman's criticisms into a profitable sale.

Step 1: Clear out the clutter in the living room, add new furniture, and focus on the fireplace.

Step 2: Stage the dining room so it is all about dining.

Step 3: Build banquette seating in the breakfast nook, and make the family room a cozy place to gather.

Carpenters Deus Scott and Steve Hanneman are on hand to lend some muscle and expert carpentry skills.