FAQ

Q: How do I know which package is right for me?

A: Start by identifying what you need help with - organizing, design, moving, or staging. Then look at the level of support you want: DIY guidance, hands-on collaboration, or full-service. Still not sure? Book a free 15-minute consultation and I'll help you figure out the best fit for your situation and budget.

 

Q: What areas do you serve?

A: I'm based in Portland, Oregon and serve the greater Portland metro area. If you're outside this area, contact me - I may be able to accommodate your project for additional travel fees.

 

Q: How far in advance should I book?

A: I recommend booking 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during busy seasons (spring/summer for moving, fall/winter for organizing). However, I can sometimes accommodate rush projects - just reach out and we'll see what we can do.

 

Q: Do you work with severe hoarding situations?

A: I specialize in general organizing, decluttering, and space design for typical homes. I am not certified to work with severe hoarding situations, which require specialized training and support. If your situation involves significant hoarding challenges, I'm happy to refer you to certified hoarding specialists who have the expertise to help. There's no shame in needing specialized support - I just want to make sure you get the right help for your specific needs.

 

Q: What payment methods do you accept?

A: I accept cash, Apple Cash, Venmo, and bank transfer (ACH) at no extra cost. Payment is due upon completion of services unless otherwise arranged.

 

Q: Do you offer payment plans?

A: For larger packages ($1,500+), I can discuss payment arrangements on a case-by-case basis. Contact me to discuss options.

 

Q: What's your cancellation policy?

A: You can cancel or reschedule with 48+ hours notice at no charge. Within 48 hours, there's a 50% cancellation fee. No-shows or same-day cancellations are charged 100%. Rescheduling within 48 hours has a $50 fee.

Q: Will you be working alone or with a team?

A: It depends on the package! Some services are just me working with you one-on-one. Full-service packages include my professional assistant to help with the physical work. Design + Staging packages include my design assistant Kari for professional styling. The package descriptions clearly note when assistants are included.

 

Q: Do I need to be present during the session?

A: Yes, for most services you'll need to be there to make decisions about what to keep, donate, or discard. The exception is maintenance sessions for past clients where I already know your preferences and systems.

 

Q: What should I do to prepare for my organizing session?

A: Nothing! Seriously. Don't pre-clean or pre-organize. I need to see your space as it actually is so I can create systems that work for your real life, not an artificially tidied version. Just clear your schedule and be ready to make decisions. The one exception is if we're working with clothes or dishes, they will need to be washed and ready to put away. 

 

Q: Do you bring organizing supplies?

A: I bring basic supplies like labels, bags for donations, and tools for minor installations. However, storage containers, bins, shelving units, and furniture are purchased separately by you. I'll provide specific recommendations for what you need, and you can either shop yourself or add on my shopping service.

 

Q: What happens to items I'm donating?

A: Most packages include one donation drop-off run to a local community organization where donations directly serve people experiencing need, not big chains that resell for profit. I typically work with organizations like Frog and Toad Hauling and other Portland community partners that prioritize getting items to those who can use them.

This is part of my commitment to ethical, community-focused business practices. I'll bag or box your donations and coordinate the drop-off. Additional donation runs are $75 per trip.

Q: Can I book just one hour?

A: Most services have a 2-hour minimum (3 hours for garages). This ensures we have enough time to make meaningful progress. However, maintenance sessions for past clients can sometimes be shorter - contact me to discuss.

 

Q: What if my project takes longer than the package hours?

A: If we're running over, I'll check with you before continuing. Overtime is charged at $75/hour for solo work or $110/hour with my assistant. Most projects finish within the estimated time if you're prepared and engaged.

 

Q: Can I combine services or create a custom package?

A: Absolutely! If you need multiple services (like organizing + design, or moving + staging), contact me for custom package pricing. Most clients save money when booking multiple services together.

 

Q: Do you offer discounts for multiple rooms?

A: Yes! Most clients save $200-500 when booking 4+ rooms. Contact me for multi-room package pricing.

 

Q: Do you offer a sliding scale?

A: Yes, I offer a sliding scale for QTBIPOC and low-income clients depending on project and availability. Contact me to discuss options.

Q: What's the difference between your organizing and design services?

A: Organizing focuses on decluttering and creating systems for your belongings. Design focuses on space planning, furniture layout, and optimizing your room's function and flow. Many clients benefit from both - that's why I offer the Room Transformation combo package!

 

Q: Do you provide the furniture and décor?

A: No, you purchase furniture and décor (if needed) based on my recommendations. I provide detailed shopping lists with exact dimensions and specifications so you know exactly what to buy. You can shop yourself or add on my shopping service ($50/hour).

 

Q: What software do you use for layouts?

A: I use SketchUp to create 3D floor plans and layouts. You'll receive digital files showing your space with measurements, furniture placement, and traffic flow.

 

Q: Can you help with just one room or do I need to do my whole house?

A: You can absolutely book just one room! Most of my clients start with one problem area and then expand from there.

Q: Do you pack/load the moving truck?

A: My moving services focus on the organizing aspect - decluttering before you move and unpacking/organizing at your new home. Professional movers handle the actual truck loading and transport. I can recommend great local moving companies if you need referrals.

 

Q: What's the difference between your moving packages and hiring movers?

A: Moving companies transport your stuff from point A to point B. I help you declutter beforehand (so you're not paying to move things you don't need), pack strategically (so unpacking is easier), and then unpack and organize your new home so it's functional immediately. We handle different but complementary parts of the moving process.

 

Q: Can you help me decide what furniture to keep when downsizing?

A: Absolutely! That's a key part of the Downsizing Package. I'll measure your new space, create layouts showing what fits, and help you make practical decisions about which furniture to keep, sell, or donate before you move.

Q: What's the difference between your staging and traditional staging companies?

A: Traditional staging companies rent furniture and décor for vacant homes. I work with what you already own - rearranging, decluttering, and styling your existing furniture and belongings to make your home photo-ready and market-ready. It's more affordable and works great for occupied homes.

 

Q: Do you work with realtors?

A: Yes! I have a special Realtor Partnership Package where you can offer professional staging support to your seller clients. Contact me to discuss how we can work together.

 

Q: How soon before listing should I stage my home?

A: Ideally 1-2 weeks before your photographer comes. This gives you time to implement changes and make any repairs or improvements I recommend in the staging plan.