How much does it cost, and how long will it take?

Time and cost are closely related. Small projects (such as one room or closet) take less time than large projects (such as an entire home), and therefore cost less. Paper filing projects tend to take longer than organizing other “stuff” because of the greater number of decisions that need to be made.

Time and cost also depend upon your level of involvement. The more progress you can make on your own between sessions, the fewer sessions we will need together. As you learn to make decisions more quickly, we both can accomplish more work in shorter periods of time.

Actual costs can also vary depending upon the type of project, and the level of service beyond our on-site work. Sometimes I charge by the session (typically 3 hours), and sometimes I offer service packages that include supplies, customized labels, additional research, etc.

Home organizing consultants in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area typically charge fees in the range of $50-$125/hour. You might be able to find a newer professional organizer that charges less. Expect business organizing to cost more.

How far do you travel?

For in-person consulting, I generally stay within the Twin Cities metro area. I am based in Minnetonka and therefore travel a bit farther west as well. I also have a great referral network, and I would be happy to help you find someone in your area. Phone and internet consulting have virtually no boundaries!

For speaking, I travel pretty much anywhere.

Will you make me get rid of everything?

No way. When it comes to letting go of things you no longer use or love, the goal is do so purposefully and responsibly. I work with you to get a good handle on what you have so that it’s easier to share the excess and make space for what you love most. I’ll help you find a charity that makes it more meaningful to you, so you can be a cheerful giver. You always have the option of selling your stuff via e-bay, consignment, garage sale, etc. We’ll talk about what would be most effective for you.

I’d be too embarrassed to have you come over.

Don’t worry about it. I’ve been in plenty of “messes.” In fact, I ask every client to please not do any special cleaning or straightening before I arrive. I want to see your space in its normal condition so that I can help you better.

Our work together is confidential. If you want people to know you’ve hired me, great. Otherwise, my default position is not to share your name with others. Plus, I arrive in an “unmarked car,” so you don’t have to worry about neighbors, if that’s a concern.

I have children. Should I get a babysitter?

If your children require a lot of supervision, you’ll want to arrange childcare so that we can accomplish more. However, if we will be working on a child’s room, it’s usually good to have the child there for at least part of the time, depending on his or her age.

Can you help my… (husband, mother, son, daughter, etc.)?

Only if they are willing to accept help. One of the top questions I get at my organizing seminars is “How do I get my husband to be more organized?” Organizing requires change. So the real question is “How can I change him?” Change can only happen when a person recognizes the need, sees the benefits, and is ready to change habits and attitudes.

Shouldn’t I just hire a housecleaner?

Sure, if you just want someone to clean your house. The purpose of working with an organizing consultant is to learn long-term skills and strategies so that you can focus on what you love most. In fact, getting rid of excess clutter would eliminate 40 percent of the housework in the average home (source: National Soap and Detergent Association), freeing you to do other things.

I’m thinking of becoming a professional organizer. Where should I start?

Organize friends, coworkers, family members...any projects you can find to get experience. Attend a local chapter meeting of the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO). This will provide a great networking opportunity for you, allow you to ask questions, and learn more about the profession. Consider hiring a professional organizer coach (yes, I can help you with this) to help you decide if it’s right for you--and help you start your business well.

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