Do you really enjoy spending your time moving boxes? If not, get busy and have a yard sale well ahead of your move.

Even if you're just starting to consider buying a home, it's a good time to start filling boxes and making piles of possessions that you haven't used in the past year or two.

Then, once you get serious about finding a home, go through cupboards, closets, basements, and attics in search of more possessions that don't need to accompany you to your new home.

Once you think you've found everything, clear it all out with a yard sale. Your eventual move will be easier, and you just might make enough money to assist with your home purchase.

If you're a seller, make it a part of the preparation to sell. You know you need to de-clutter and de-personalize, so do it by getting completely rid of those items you no longer want or need.

Whether you're buying or selling, one fact is true: If you wait until the last minute, when you know you need to move within a week or two, the temptation will be to just throw everything in boxes and take it along.

That will make your move more expensive and time consuming. And it will mean you'll either have to find a place for all those no-longer-needed items in your new home or you'll have boxes sitting around for months, reminding you that you still have work to do.

What about the sale "leftovers?" There are always leftovers, so do a little research and choose a local charity with a thrift store. If you have clothing that needs to go, consider donating it to a homeless shelter or a shelter for battered women and children. You'll feel good about it – and they'll feel better for having it.

When you're ready to buy or sell – or when you just want to know the latest about our Vancouver housing market – get in touch. I'm always happy to answer your questions.