How do we get started?
Let’s start with my complimentary initial consultation.  This is the opportunity for me to visit with you in your space of need and discuss options, goals, and scheduling. 

What are your rates?
My rate is $40 per hour.  I do not charge for my travel time unless I’m on a mission/errand for your project or you are located more than 45 minutes away from Chatham, NY.  In that case $.55 per mile is charged. Time “on the clock” can include phone consulting, emails, instant messaging or texting.   The total cost of every project depends on the size and how much you wish to do yourself. You are responsible for the cost of goods used in your project.  Payment is due at the end of each project session or weekly for home management services. Cash, check and PayPal are accepted.

Do you work outside of typical business hours?
My schedule is somewhat flexible in that I can arrange to meet and work with you when you have free time which includes weeknights and weekends.    

Do you provide hands-on services?
Absolutely, I generally work side-by-side with a client for organizing projects and am directly involved in most of the physicality of your project.  However, I limit lifting heavy and/or awkward objects as well as the shuffling and schlepping of stuff to a reasonable amount.  Projects that involve potential safety hazards will be addressed on a case by case basis.

Will you make me throw things away?
Not necessarily. This of course depends on how much clutter you want to control. We will look at all of your options as to how to store your belongings of value, emotional or material, however we will absolutely need to let go of any items that are exceedingly dirty, unsanitary, or unsafe. I will suggest a reduction plan using a percentage requirement of what will stay and what really has to go to meet your goals or for the health and well being of the individuals in the home. I will help you find a way to store or utilize everything that you want to keep.

Is there anything I can do outside of our organizing sessions to keep the project moving?
Yes! Expect to be assigned small amounts of homework. Homework can involve going through paperwork or sentimental photos, letters or journals, taking returns back to stores, posting items for sale, or dealing with garbage/recyclables.

Will I have to buy a fancy closet system or lots of organizing containers?
Not necessarily. I always like to utilize any organizing and storage solutions that may already be in your home. If it seems necessary to purchase containers or other organizing items, together we'll come up with what you find practical and stylish. For our first session, please bring forward any containers/organizers/space-bags/baskets/boxes or similar organizing accessories you already own.

Why should I hire a NAPO professional organizer rather than a non NAPO organizer? (NAPO refers to the National Association of Professional Organizers)
Professional organizing, like many professions, benefits the consumer through education and organization. NAPO members sign a code of ethics and are likely to be the best of the best. Much of what we know individually in the increasingly sophisticated area of professional organization comes to us through the benefits of membership in NAPO. As the "organizing authority," NAPO members have access to a larger list of resources and to other professionals and their ideas.

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