Professional Organizing FAQs for Greater Cleveland

Do I need to clean up before you come?

No! Feeling overwhelmed and like things are out of control is exactly the reason to hire a professional organizer. We have seen it all and will help you in a caring and nonjudgmental atmosphere. Don’t make yourself wait for all the benefits professional home organizing services can bring you!

What do services include?

All services include a short consultation and active decluttering assistance. They also include removal of 1 carload of items for donation. This does not include extra large items or furniture. Advice can be provided on how to easily get these items out of your home.

What if we don’t finish the project during our scheduled time?

Our sessions start at a half day, which is 3 hours for $300, up to a full day at $600, and larger projects may take more than one visit. If we are close to finishing, we can keep going and add time at our hourly rate of $100 per hour. You can also finish a few simple tasks on your own, or we can book your next session.

Do I have to buy organizing bins or containers?

The answer is no. Some people view Pinterest or The Container Store and think they need to run out and buy cute matching bins, baskets and storage containers. The key to organizing is letting go of items first. Most homes with clutter already have plenty of bins, baskets and boxes around that can be used to organize your things and see what system will work for you. After decluttering, if you would like to purchase matching containers and would like assistance doing so, I am happy to help.

I can purchase desired items and bring them to the next appointment. The cost of organizing bins would be an additional charge beyond the hourly rate for services, they are provided at cost with no extra fees attached.

What do you bring with you?

I always bring lots of garbage bags to help remove clutter, donations, and trash. I bring boxes when I am able and we can use empty boxes that you may have on hand. I also bring a label maker, ziploc bags for organizing, cleaning wipes, and a tape measure.

Do I have to work alongside you?

Decluttering usually works best if we work together. Two heads and four hands make the work go more quickly. Most times you need to make decisions about what to keep and what to let go of. The best organization systems are tailored to your individual needs: how you use the items and the space. Participating will also build your decluttering “muscles” to continue to tackle clutter on your own and maintain your new clutter free space.

Clients may choose to sit in a chair nearby and make decisions while I handle all of the physical aspects of decluttering and organizing.

If you have an area that is full of clutter and decisions have already been made, I can work alone to make your space peaceful and relaxing once again.

What types of payment do you accept?

We send invoices by email, and you can pay by credit card, cash, electronic check, Zelle, or Venmo.

How can I prepare for a whole-home decluttering project?

You do not need to clean or buy bins before we come. The best way to prepare is to book a free consult and think about which rooms bother you most and how you want your home to feel when we are done. Together we plan the project and the order of the rooms. We bring the supplies, labeling is included at no extra charge, and removal of one carload of donations is included with every service.

What should I expect during a home organizing session with a professional?

Expect a calm, judgment-free session where you stay in charge. We start by talking through your goals for the space, then take items out, sort them into categories, and help you decide what to keep. We set up a system that fits how you actually live and label it so things are easy to find and put away. You can work right alongside us, sit nearby and make decisions, or let us handle more of the physical work.

What are the benefits of hiring a professional organizer for busy professionals?

The biggest benefit is getting your time back. Instead of spending evenings and weekends on projects that keep getting pushed off, you have a team doing the physical work with you, or for you, and getting it done. We build systems around how you actually live, so your home stays easy to manage and your downtime is truly relaxing.

Are there organizing services available for seniors who want to age in place?

Yes. Declutter with Devon helps seniors across Greater Cleveland declutter and organize, whether they want to age in place or are thinking about downsizing. We handle the physical work, and you stay in control and make every decision as we go through your things together. Every project uses our Emotionally Intelligent Organizing Method, which accounts for the emotional side of letting go of belongings that hold a lifetime of memories.