A focus on clients going through a transition
Times of transition are a difficult space for all involved, which is why Busby Group is focusing now more than ever on clients who are in this time of change, including our senior-specific client service. Just recently, our own Barb Steinhauser received her Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation. This was a very natural progression for us as we have always offered specialized care for all clients – but it never hurts to make it official!
While our white glove level service is universal for all Busby Group clients, there are particular facets of our service that are appealing to seniors, including:
Professional coordination. Some of our senior clients own multiple homes requiring conversations and coordination with other trusted professionals such as a family office and medical, financial and legal advisors for their real estate transactions. For senior sellers it’s sometimes more than simply down-sizing or upsizing – it can involve an interstate move or a move to some sort of care facility or community. We are not only accustomed to these situations, but have developed specific strategies and logistics to make sure the process runs smoothly.
Privacy and communication protocols. Unfortunately there are unexpected relocations as the result of an unexpected life/death or disability/medical event. Compounding the situation, the nature of these latter real estate transactions can be fraught with emotion and family dynamics. We offer the professionalism, experience and care each situation demands.
Top broker referrals across the country. Many of our senior clients are lucky snowbirds, headed to the sunny skies Florida, Arizona, or California. We have worked hard to create a closeknit network of likeminded brokers across the country, so that as the need arises we are able to make a great referral. And when we say closeknit, we mean it! We are in constant communication with many of the leading brokers in major cities.
Inventory expertise. For our senior clients, there are a few themes that come up again and again. Most of our senior clients prefer single-story living with easy access to an elevator. A location convenient to retail and grocery shopping is also many times important. Bonus points for an indoor pool, since many of our senior clients love this form of exercise!
One of our current listings at 132 E Delaware Place actually hits every item on this list if you are interested in taking a look!
First-time opportunity to own this meticulously maintained, spacious home featuring incredible lake, city and sunset views perched atop the Four Seasons Hotel with access to the hotel’s unparalleled amenities
Living space with expansive windows and third bedroom area, currently an open office, boasts full walls of custom built-ins with wet bar
Picturesque west views (sunsets!) from the spacious and bright eat-in kitchen
Generous primary suite with more west-facing views, 2 walk-in closets, and the ensuite primary bath with double vanity soaking tub, and walk-in shower
Unbeatable Gold Coast location with all of the city’s best at your fingertips, plus easy access to Lake Shore Drive, Oak Street Beach and the lakefront trail
Convenient self-park and valet options available
Our goal is to successfully facilitate any type of move to make it as seamless as possible. If you or your family member are going through a time of transition, we have a complete list of vetted professionals and services that can make that work very well. Take advantage of our expertise and call if you see a potential real estate transaction coming into focus, we are here to help.
Midwest really is best: the great migration home
We all know at least a few people that moved during the pandemic – and if you’re like me, you know a lot! And Chicago was no exception. People left the city in search of wide open spaces, which made total sense in 2020. But, times and priorities have changed, and as a team we have seen a new trend: people are returning to the Windy City! In fact, the population of Chicago has increased every year since 2020, with last year’s gains as the biggest since the pandemic at .53% to 8,984,000.
Over the last year, we have seen a resurgence of lifestyle moves. We recently helped an attorney who moved to Park Ridge during the pandemic, move back to the city to be closer to the courthouse. Anecdotally, we have also noticed an influx of Floridians and Coloradans at showings, looking to move to Chicago. We are also seeing a revival of suburban empty nesters moving to the city to be closer to Chicago’s cultural and dining scenes.
When speaking to our clients and buyers, a few themes come up again and again that are prompting their move.
Lower cost of living for a top city
Of the most populous cities in the country, Chicago remains the cheapest in terms of cost of living! Forbes put together this fun Cost of Living Calculator that lets you compare your cost of living of where you live now with where you want to go.
Returning to work
Outranked only by New York as the city with the most Fortune 1,000 company headquarters, many people are moving back to be closer to their office as reopening continues. Public transportation becomes a huge factor too, and people miss the ease the L and Metra provides.
Natural disasters
Chicagoans moved to Florida in droves throughout the pandemic period. In 2022 alone, over 35,000 relocated there. But in the past few years, the number and intensity of hurricanes in Chicago have dramatically increased. In contrast, the midwest is always at the top of the list of safest cities from natural disaster. Hurricanes are not only a major lifestyle inconvenience, but have financial impact as well, specifically in regards to homeowners insurance, repairs, and potential loss of income.
Midwest is best!
We hear it over and over again: there is something about Chicago, and more importantly, something about Chicagoans! People who move south miss the midwest charm, the culture of the city, the weather, the lake, and everything that makes Chicago, Chicago.
The Sandwich Generation: Welcome to the club! Plus my best tips for how to make it easier
A few months ago, my mom made a comment to me while we were discussing the number of things I had on my to do list. She said, “You are stuck right in that sandwich generation, unfortunately.” To which I responded, “What are you talking about? Are you saying that millennials love sandwiches? Cause we totally do.” She laughed off my comment, agreed, and went on to tell me about the term Sandwich Generation – which is basically defined by: middle-aged adults who are simultaneously caring for their children and their aging parents (Thanks Google!)
If that definition sounded familiar, welcome to the club! Being stuck in the sandwich generation during your lifetime comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards. Balancing the demands of raising children while also caring for aging parents can feel overwhelming at times. This dual responsibility can be emotionally and physically taxing, but it also brings a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose. As a young mom, I often find myself juggling school runs, playdates, homework and doctor’s appointments and ensuring my parents’ well-being.
Is there a solution to make all this easier? Not really. But I am here today to give you some ideas as to how to get through these years as smoothly as possible.
Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or support groups. Sharing your experiences and challenges can provide emotional relief and practical advice. Chances are, most of your friends are going through the same thing as you and sometimes it eases stress to just chat about it with someone familiar.
Stay Organized: Use tools like planners, apps, or calendars to keep track of appointments, tasks, and deadlines. Staying organized can help you feel more in control. I keep it old school with the larger sticky notes. One to-do list for the week and then break that down every morning into things I need to do that day.
Communicate Openly: Keep the lines of communication open with your family. Discussing your needs and concerns can help prevent misunderstandings and foster a supportive environment.
Prioritize and Delegate: Identify the most critical tasks and focus on those first. Don’t hesitate to delegate responsibilities to other family members or seek professional help when needed.
Set Boundaries: Clearly define your work and personal time. This helps prevent burnout and ensures you have time to recharge.
Practice Self-Care: Make time for activities that rejuvenate you, whether it’s exercise, reading, or spending time with friends. Taking care of yourself is essential to being able to care for others.
As someone who is also navigating these waters, I am well-equipped to assist you in finding the right solutions for your family. Whether you’re looking to buy a new home that accommodates your growing family or helping your parents downsize to a more manageable space, I am here to guide you every step of the way. My journey as a real estate agent is deeply intertwined with my personal experiences. Having older parents has given me a unique perspective on the challenges and needs of families like ours. I understand the emotional and logistical complexities involved in helping parents downsize or transition to a new living situation and this has allowed me to better connect with my clients on a deeper level.
Being a young parent in the sandwich generation is no easy feat, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. As a real estate agent who understands the unique challenges you face, I am here to help you and your parents find the perfect living solutions. Together, we can create a future where everyone feels supported, comfortable, and at home.
Feel free to reach out to me for a consultation or just to chat about your needs. Let’s make this journey a positive and empowering experience for your entire family.
Our favorite 2024 design trends
Has anyone else noticed all of the 90s inspired fashion lately? Baby doll t-shirts, platform shoes – what’s old is new again! The same is true in interior design. Recognizing these cycles always makes me feel more comfortable taking design risks because chances are the trend will return in due time! Check out some of our favorite design moments of the year thus far.
Arched windows
When in doubt, add more windows – I would bet my life that our love of windows never goes out of style, but arched windows are a different story. What once read is a 90’s look, is totally back. Arches throughout interior design are huge right now including arched hallways, arched built-ins and windows too! Our listing at 4831 Lamb in Oak Lawn has beautiful arched windows looking out over the lush yard.
Concrete loft
I love layering different textures throughout rooms, and concrete lofts come with so much texture as a foundation. Juxtaposing the concrete ceiling (they’re quiet too!) with softer textures like a plush rug and linen curtains creates that quiet luxury look everyone is after right now. Check out the incredible ceiling height and textures at our listing at 900 N Kingsbury St #859 and 659 W Randolph #1416.
Parquet is back!
Parquet flooring has had ugly step-sister status for many years now, but she is back and better than ever! New construction has started utilizing parquet for texture and interest while still maintaining a neutral palette, but the downside is it is very expensive. We love the vintage parquet in our 1100 N Lake Shore Drive # 36B listing.
Built-ins, always
It is true that built-ins never went out of style, and I can’t imagine they ever will. Built-ins are such a great way to add value, storage and design. We love a multi-tasking built-in like the one at our LaSalle listing that doubles as a cocktail bar and coffee bar – a full drink station!
Statement libraries
For many years, interior design has been extremely neutral, but we are seeing the trend return to darker, moodier and more colorful – and we love to see it! Especially in dining rooms and libraries, darker color palettes are having such a moment. Painted ceilings and high-gloss finishes on built-ins and walls are very popular right now. We love the intricate design and wood grains in this gorgeous library in our 1100 N Lake Shore Drive #24B and the high-gloss black built-ins at 132 E Delaware #5601.
On the other side of the spectrum is this light and bright library statement in our 229 Lake Shore Drive listing. What was once a boring entry foyer becomes a total moment with built-in bookshelves lined with literary treasures.
Designer home offices
It makes total sense that people have really invested in their home offices the past few years. Working in a beautiful, thoughtfully designed space makes the workday go by that much faster, after all. The vaulted ceilings, exposed brick, lush treetop views and scale of the home office/bedroom at our Honore listing stopped us in our tracks!
Making the most of the great outdoors
Creating the perfect outdoor space doesn’t have to be complicated. A little privacy, a little something green, and a little space, and you have the perfect recipe for a relaxing oasis! Our clients at our listing Linden Ave Western Springs listing totally transformed their backyard into multiple separate spaces – think a dining area, lounging zone and yard to run around! Our listing on Kenmore has a sizable private balcony, plus a huge roof deck ready for ideas and creativity! For water lovers, check out the amazing pool setup at our Mokena listing!
Our favorite things to do at the Chicago Riverwalk!
Can anyone remember a time before the Riverwalk?! It’s only been around for a few years, but the 1.25-mile path has made its mark! There is always something fun happening, and much like the 606 Trail did for Bucktown, the Riverwalk has reinvigorated the whole neighborhood – which for a real estate broker, is always a good site to see. Whether you are visiting or local, you will find something fun and exciting along the Riverwalk any day of the week, and I’ve outlined a few of my favorites!
Live Music and Performances
From jazz ensembles to acoustic soloists, the Riverwalk showcases a diverse array of musical talent that adds a rhythmic soundtrack to your waterfront adventures. One of my favorite spots to watch live music on the Riverwalk is Tiny Tap & Tiny Cafe. Check out their lineup here!
Art Installations and Public Art
From larger-than-life sculptures to interactive multimedia exhibits and public art, keep an eye out for rotating exhibitions and temporary installations that constantly bring new life and energy to the Riverwalk. And, of course, you can’t miss Art on theMART. Did you know that it is the world’s largest digital art projection covering 2.5 acres of the Mart’s river-facing facade?! Enjoy a free show every night April through December.
And don’t forget the Chicago Architecture Center, which is perfectly positioned on the river and offers a huge variety of amazing tours.
Restaurants and Dining
Some of the city’s best restaurants are along the Riverwalk, and not just because of the incredible views – the food happens to be delicious along the whole promenade. My personal favorites include Gibson’s Italia and RPM Seafood.
Water Activities
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the Riverwalk offers a variety of water activities and excursions that allow you to explore the city from a unique perspective. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and venture out onto the gentle waters of the Chicago River, taking in panoramic views of the skyline and iconic landmarks along the way. Or enjoy a guided architectural boat tour to learn about the rich history and architectural legacy of the city.
Family-Friendly Fun
The Riverwalk is not just for adults! Treat the littles to an afternoon of fun and adventure at one of the interactive play areas or splash pads!
Iconic 435 N Michigan Ave
One of our current listings is in the recently retrofitted Tribune Tower, overlooking the scenic views of the Riverwalk. Located directly below the iconic building’s historical signage, this two-bedroom, two-and-one-half bath home is nestled in the preferred tier and offers a coveted split floor plan.
Additional information:
Luxurious finishes and updates include high-end construction finishes and architectural details including 6.5-inch white oak quarter sawn hardwood flooring and unique millwork, plus the seller additions including custom window treatments and wall treatments throughout the home, and remodeled powder room with antique vanity and designer lighting and wall treatment
Chef’s dream kitchen offers classic Bovelli cabinetry, quartzite countertops and backsplash, Wolf, Sub-Zero and Miele appliances with built-in smart technology, custom range hood and island seating for 4
Primary bath features marble flooring and mosaic tile inlay, full height marble walls, marble shower with frameless glass door, Waterworks rain shower head, marble Kohler undermount bathtub and Bovelli vanity
Over 55,000+ square feet of building amenities on 4 levels including a ⅓ acre private courtyard, 75-foot indoor lap pool, which opens to an outdoor terrace and sundeck, fitness center, golf simulator and putting green, steam rooms and sauna, dog park, car wash, bike rooms and numerous social/entertaining and work spaces, plus the 25th “crown” floor with indoor and outdoor kitchens, fire pits and herb garden. Concierge 24-hour front door personal and 24/7 engineering staff.
Unparalleled location around the corner from the theater district, museum campus, Chicago River and Riverwalk, lakefront, Millennium Park and more!
Parking available for an additional fee
More information is here.
3 ways to enhance lake views with interior design
It amazes me every time I see how transformative a few simple and smart interior design choices can be for a home. I have seen this occur on countless occasions when I work with my friend and interior designer, Marcie Blanco. Marcie is not only extremely talented, but also strategic when it comes to designing homes. She can create high-end luxury spaces, but she is also so good at coming up with easy to executive and cost effective ideas that make a huge difference.
I recently chatted with her about several of our listings with lake views, wondering if there are any interior design tricks she knows that can help enhance and highlight incredible views. She had so many ideas!
Window treatments
A lot of the buildings along the lakeshore in Chicago feature stainless steel window frames, a lot of which are from the 90s. To help soften the overall look and add more texture, Marcie recommends incorporating ripple fold curtain panels in front with a sheer layer behind. Bi-layered curtains are a great way to help make a home feel cozy, add dimension and also provide flexibility with both opaque and sheer options.
In terms of length and mounting, Marcie advocates for a ceiling mount whenever possible because it maximizes the perception of ceiling height. For color, Marcie says to look out the window and highlight your favorite parts of what you see. Maybe it is the winter lake, or sunset, or the steel of neighboring buildings. Drawing colors from the outdoors inside creates a cohesive feel. You can see a great visual example at our listing at 229 E Lake Shore Drive.
Lighting
By default, homes with lake views usually also have incredible natural light, which is something you can’t recreate with any amount of interior design. To help create a feeling of quiet luxury, Marice advocates for layering different types of lighting including sconces, floor lamps, and table lamps. With numerous options, natural light is still the star. Smart home technology makes it easier to manage different sources of lighting with just a few buttons, making layered lighting as convenient as overhead cans. Our listing at 1100 N Lake Shore Drive’s expansive rooms are the perfect blank canvas for several types of lighting.
Color
When decorating to highlight a lake view, Marcie recommends incorporating elements of contrasting colors such as burnt siena, pumpkin, paprika – all of which will make the lake appear brighter. She also advocates for considering color on the ceiling! It may sound counterintuitive, but painting the ceiling in a neutral or neutral adjacent (think charcoal or a deep brown) really frames a space and creates the effect of a warm and cozy envelope. Go bold on furniture and items you take with you when you ultimately move again!
A few highlights from all of our listings with lake views:
229 E Lake Shore 10E: Spacious and prestigious 4-bed, 4-bath, 10th floor East Lake Shore Drive home with soaring unobstructed views of Lake Michigan, large formal living room, elegant dining room, and luxurious primary suite Learn more>>
435 N Michigan 620: Prestigious Chicago Tribune 2-bed, 2.5-bath home in the preferred south tower with a coveted split floor plan and gorgeous river and city views Learn more>>
132 E Delaware 5601: First-time opportunity to own this meticulously maintained, spacious home featuring incredible lake, city and sunset views perched atop the Four Seasons Hotel with access to the hotel’s unparalleled amenities Learn more>>
1100 N Lake Shore 24B: Thoughtfully renovated and gently lived-in south-east corner unit with incredible lake,Lake Shore Drive and city views Learn more>>
600 N LSD 3601: Designer home with the most desirable split bedroom floor plan, plus rare unobstructed lake and city views and private balcony Learn more>>
Q1 2024 Chicagoland real estate market overview
It is early April, which means we are at the very heart of the spring real estate market in Chicago. April also means we get a chance to reflect on the market throughout Q1 of this year. So far, the market this year has been heavily influenced by two factors: interest rates and inventory. Sellers are hesitant to list because they are locked in at a lower rate than today’s, so that when they purchase their next home the higher rates are a mental hurdle. As a result, we see the low inventory we are experiencing today – it’s a domino effect/self-perpetuating cycle!
What we at Busby Group really want Chicagoland sellers to know is that you can truly get a great price for your home right now due to our lack of inventory and pent up demand – take advantage of this current marketplace scenario! There are many, many ways to sell right now and either not buy immediately, rent, buy down an interest rate – all captured in this blog post.
The very bright spot of happy news is that properties in Chicago continue to appreciate. Across all neighborhoods prices are up, which is good news for all Chicagoans.
Inventory
As in the entire country, inventory in Chicago is at historic lows across the market in both the city and suburbs. Inventory in March 2024 is actually even lower than it was this time last year. We do anticipate the spring market to continue later than usual this year due to the early rate volatility, and believe that sellers who need to sell in 2024 will begin entering the market in April and May.
For buyers, low inventory means making sure that you uncover every stone whether that be on or off-market opportunities. Inventory this low typically indicates a sellers’ market, and generally that is what we see across Chicago, but demand is currently very neighborhood-driven. For example, average market time for condos in Lincoln Park (47 days) is significantly lower than the market at large (67 days).
Market Time
Lincoln Park single-family home market time is higher than condos at 79 days, primarily driven by the higher price tag – single family home buyers are that much more sensitive to interest rate volatility. In the suburbs though, market time across the board is lower than the city, continuing the trend of the past few years of people moving from the city to the suburbs.
Average Sales Price
Average sales prices for condos and single-family homes across Chicagoland have been in relative lockstep over the past three years, up approximately 20%. With inventory so low the past several years, coupled with the fluctuations in rates, this amount of appreciation in such a short time is striking – and also promising! Investing in Chicagoland real estate continues to be a strong option.
The inside scoop on how to shop for homeowners insurance
Can you name one thing that every homeowner must purchase before closing? If you guessed homeowners insurance, you win! Homeowners insurance is part of the deal, and a very important part at that! I recently sat down with Kevin Grady, a representative at Allstate that I have used personally and referred to dozens of clients. He’s knowledgeable, helpful and pragmatic, and he was also the perfect person to ask: what should we look for when we select insurance?
In this video we cover:
Why you should always get a home inspection (even if your contract is not contingent on it!), especially to inspect the roof and basement
Why it is important to choose a reputable insurance company
The report you should ask a seller for if you are worried about potential issues (I had never heard of this, and it’s a great tip!)
The most important aspects of your home to insure (Kevin told me to buy this additional insurance and it was a lifesaver!)
When to file claims
What could be better than new construction?
One phrase we use with relative frequency in real estate is, “better-than-new-construction,” and I realized recently that consumers may be confused by this turn of phrase. I think it is most confusing because “better” is a totally subjective word, especially when it comes to one’s home. The truth is, if you want new construction, nothing is better than that!
But, there are some pros and cons to be aware of when it comes to new construction versus a remodeled home. The biggest benefit to new construction is that you will be the first person to ever live in it, plus you receive a builder warranty, which provides protection for approximately one year! Everything will feel, look and smell fresh. On the flip side, this may also be a con for new construction. Because everything is new, you will be the person to discover all the home’s kinks and quirks. That discovery process may be more than you want to take on.
With new construction, there are also several standard items that are traditionally not included with the home such as washer/dryer, window treatment, closet organizers, light fixtures and ceiling fans. Additionally, most of the finishes will be “builder’s grade,” meaning generic enough to appeal to the masses and typically not the highest quality available. For some this may be a benefit because they are excited to customize their home, while for others these additional items feel like a costly burden.
Right now we have two “better-than-new-construction” homes on the market with so much to offer, including so many of the features you may miss with new construction including upgrades, size, charm and location.
Upgrades
Our listing at 180 E Pearson, residence #6006, was recently fully renovated with design-forward modern finishes including slab ceiling detail in the kitchen with integrated lighting, solid-core panel detailed doors, designer lighting, fully customized closets and automated lighting and blinds (rarely found in new construction!). When a homeowner remodels instead of a builder, there is a greater attention to quality and design – you won’t find builder’s grade finishes anywhere in this home.
Our single-family home listing at 3305 W Belle Plaine is another great example of quality finishes with its upgraded deck with composite decking, custom attached shelving throughout, custom closet organizers (rarely found in new construction!), and Lutron dimmers – all the details that make a house a home. Both of these properties are great examples of investing in smaller details that make a huge difference when it comes to the look, feel and functionality of a home.
Size
One fact of living in Chicago is there are only so many wide lots in the city. With our listing on Belle Plaine, you could be the proud owner of one, without having to lift a finger with remodeling. The same goes for our home at 180 E Pearson, which is a high-floor corner unit with endless west, south, city and lake views and just shy of 3,000 square feet of living space. To get the same view and square footage in a new construction building, you would easily wait 18 to 24 months.
Charm
At our listing on Belle Plaine, you get the best of all worlds with modern updates, mixed with some of the original charming design of the home including an incredible dining room wood built-in with mirror. At 180 E Pearson, sellers added a versatile sliding solid wood door/feature wall which opens into the office/third bedroom – an update you would only think of after having lived in the home.
Location
In some parts of the country, big plots of land still remain empty close to a downtown area. That is very much not the case in Chicago! With these remodeled homes, you are able to live in what feels like a new home, but in a prime location close to everything.
With our Pearson listing, you also get the benefit of resort-like living through access to the Ritz Carlton Hotel amenities including room service and concierge; plus the Carlton Club Spa, fitness center, indoor pool and lounge. With Belle Plaine, you get a prime location close to Horner Park, restaurants/breweries/shopping, and easy 90/94 access.
Don’t get me wrong, new construction is a great option, but for those who want something unique – and fast – remodeled homes are the perfect solution!
The Best 7 Tips and Tricks for Getting Organized in the New Year
By: Ashley Rapp
As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to get your life and spaces organized. Whether it’s your home, workspace, or personal life, being organized can bring peace of mind and help you accomplish your goals more effectively.
Here are my top 7 tips for getting organized…
Set Clear Goals: Before diving into organizing, it’s important to set clear goals for yourself. Determine what areas of your life or spaces you want to organize and what outcomes you hope to achieve. Having specific goals will help you stay motivated and focused throughout the process.
Declutter and Simplify: Start by decluttering your spaces. Get rid of items you no longer need or use (I call this “low hanging fruit”) – what is taking up valuable real-estate? (no pun intended 😊). Set a timer for 30 minutes and take a box for donation and a trash bag for trash around your home. You will already feel better after this exercise and start to realize where you need to spend more time.
Prioritize and Schedule: Getting organized does not happen overnight. It takes time and planning. Make a list of tasks and prioritize them based on importance and urgency. Create a schedule or to-do list and block your calendar to help you stay on track. Set deadlines for tasks and allocate specific time slots for different activities. This will ensure that you make progress and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Start Small: Please do not start with the entire kitchen. Start with your junk drawer, pantry or laundry room. Get the hang of it before you jump into larger projects.
Do not buy product until you know exactly what you need: Organizing product can be expensive and it is an invest. I strongly recommend not going to The Container Store or Target until you have taken everything out of your spaces, sorted, edited and measured. This will help you save money AND prevent extra product in your home that you won’t use.
Regular Maintenance: Organizing is not a one-time task; it requires regular maintenance. Set aside time each week or month to review and declutter your spaces. Take a few minutes each day to tidy up and put things back in their designated homes. Consistency will help you maintain an organized lifestyle.
Delegate and Seek Help: Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks or seek help when needed. If you’re overwhelmed or have limited time, consider hiring a professional organizer. I promise, you won’t regret it!
Getting organized is a journey that requires effort and consistency. By setting clear goals, decluttering, creating systems, and maintaining regular maintenance, you can enjoy the benefits of an organized life. Embrace these tips and tricks, and start the new year off with a sense of calm and productivity!