Frequently Asked
Questions
What is a
professional organizer?
A professional organizer enhances the lives of clients by designing
systems and processes using organizing principles and through
transferring organizational skills. They provide information, products
and and/or assistance to help others meet their organizing needs. An
organizer will guide, encourage and educate clients about organizing
by offering support, focus and direction.
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I've seen a lot of TV shows featuring organizers. Is this a good example of what to
expect?
Yes and no. Many of the organizers you see on the shows are members of
NAPO and they work to provide their TV clients with valuable ideas,
information and hands on assistance.
But, you have to remember that in real life the process takes much
longer than it looks on TV. Also, many times on the shows there are
interior design improvements done (new furniture, carpentry, etc) in
addition to the organizing. Our priority is to assist you in getting
your life and your space organized. We can always discuss additional
improvements to your home or office, but do not think you necessarily
have to purchase any new furniture or hire a carpenter in order to get
organized.
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Why would I hire a NAPO organizer vs a non-NAPO
organizer?
The National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) has been
recognized as the organizing authority for 20 years. NAPO offers organizers
the opportunity to sharpen their skills through ongoing education and
professional development. NAPO has a Code of Ethics by which members
are expected to abide. A professional organizer who is a NAPO member
has made a commitment to his/her business and thus to you, the client.
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I've always
been disorganized, is there really hope for me?
It is possible to learn the basic principles and formulas of
organizing. However, in order to experience long-lasting,
life-changing results, a professional organizer can teach you how to
maintain your systems on a regular basis.
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Does the professional organizer do the work or does he/she tell me how to do
it?
This is a personal decision based on your needs and budget. While
others prefer to work along side their organizers, others just need
direction and an action plan to get them going. This can be determined
after the first appointment where we will conduct an initial needs
assessment.
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I am a very
private person. Will my sessions with a professional organizer be
confidential?
We are aware of the high level of trust placed in organizers by their
clients. We will never do or say anything to breach that trust.
Integrity, honesty and confidentiality are guiding principles of NAPO
that we take very seriously. Our non-judgmental approach will make you
feel comfortable in the process.
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How long will
it take to get me organized?
There is no set answer as each organizing project is different. The
length of the project will depend primarily on the size of your home
or office, the amount of clutter and/or paper that has built up and
how quickly you can make decisions. Generally, kitchens can take 6-8
hours, file drawers 3-4 hours, garages and basements take longer if
there is a lot of "stuff" stored in them.
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How much does
it cost for organizing services?
The total cost of a project can vary from client to client. Time spent
on a project is based on individual needs. Think of the value of no
longer spending needless time looking for items, reducing stress,
being on time, eliminating late fees, reducing duplicate purchases and
income in some cases finding missing checks and/or money in the clutter!
Learn more about fees.
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How do you charge for your services?
Fees are payable at the end of each session. Sessions
canceled without 24 hour notice are charged the full rate. Checks and Paypal (MC, Visa) are accepted.
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I have not heard much about Home Staging. Is this new?
Home Staging is also called Home Staging. It has been very
popular on the West Coast for over 10 years. Like many things, it has
taken time to reach the East Coast. As people have learned about the
benefits and financial gains in this service, it has become
increasingly popular.
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Can you
guarantee my house will sell for more after it has been staged?
Like any home stager, we cannot guarantee a particular price for a
home after it has been enhanced. But we can tell you that research has
shown that there is an increase in the amount the buyers get for the
home and/or a decrease in the amount of time it is on the market if it
has been staged.
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Is Home
Staging Expensive?
No, not for the valuable information you will get. There is an initial
consultation fee similar to a home inspection or real estate appraisal
fee. You will receive a complete assessment of the home for sale and
enhancement suggestions. The total cost will depend on who will be
doing the work and the scope of the enhancements. The homebuyer can
perform the improvements or enlist Atmosphere to help. Atmosphere
charges an hourly rate to assist in prepare the home. Any materials
such as paint, plants, storage products, etc. are additional.
Depending on the work, additional service providers such as handymen,
painters, plumbers, etc. may be called in. The scope of the
enhancement will be determined by budget available and priority of
areas that need improvement.
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Partial information provided by NAPO |
