Is it worth it to hire a professional organizer?

With a new year just around the corner, many homeowners are resolving to clean out their closets and get organized. But not everyone has what it takes to keep clutter at bay for the long haul. Some people find it’s worth the cost to pay an expert to make sense of their mess.

A professional organizer can work with you to create a customized organizing system, whether you’re just a little disorganized or seeking to sift through several years’ worth of stuff. In fact, professional organizers can help with everything from paper filing to garage, closet and pantry organization. They can also provide tools and suggestions to help you create better habits and make longterm improvements.

Before you hire a professional organizer, be sure you’ve identified a few clear goals for your project. It’s a good idea to interview at least three pros to find the right fit.

Check the internet to find trusted home organizers near you. And be sure to check references and read verified online ratings and reviews from past customers.

Ask pros how long they’ve been in business and whether they have any specialties that may apply to your situation.

A good organizer will ask you a lot of questions and include you in the planning and implementation processes. And you should be able to find out a lot about a pro’s approach to projects like yours in an initial interview.

Keep in mind: It will take time and communication to complete your organization project. So, it’s important to hire someone you’ll be able to open up to and spend several hours with.

Like most home service providers, professional organizers base their fees on experience, location and the type of service requested.

You can typically expect to pay by the hour, though many professionals will offer service packages for specified rooms and common situations like moving preparation.