FAQ | STORNES HOME LIFE

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I have some ideas for projects I’d like help with, but I’m not sure I’m ready to start now. Can I still reach out?

Absolutely! Organization projects can be daunting, to say the least. Let’s start with a chat about your needs and throw around some ideas for how we can tackle them. This will give us both an idea of the time and budget that may be needed and we’ll set a target date for the future. We will check in ahead of that timeframe to confirm and start putting plans together.

What types of projects can you help with?

As life goes on, there are so many different situations you may need help with. I love helping to make spaces work for whatever season of life folks are in. I have helped with various projects related to: welcoming a new baby, kids growing into new stages, moving in, moving out, downsizing, estate clean out, garage or shed cleanup, patio or deck refresh, Airbnb set up, yard sale prep…keep it coming! I’m not afraid to dive into any situation.

I think I may want new furniture or other items to make the space work, can you help with that?

Yes, I always think of organization from the point of view of efficiency AND aesthetics. I will always welcome the opportunity to help fill, or rearrange, a space with decor big or small. You’ve likely noticed that we have an in-house reseller’s market. We prioritize offering these items to clients, and often arrive with items we think may work for your space.

Okay, so what does “sustainable” mean to Stornes Home Life?

I almost don’t like to use this word simply because it can be defined in so many ways. I’m not here to get into any heated debates about it. We are not perfect people, and choosing what works for you is what matters. Here are some examples of what it means to me, take it or leave it:

I love old furniture! Typically, older furniture is built much sturdier, and there is a rich history of incredible design that is often mimicked in modern remakes…let’s keep the originals going! I am not afraid of exploring how to bring a well-worn item back to life.
You DO NOT need to buy brand new, perfectly matching storage bins for everything! When a bin in my home is suddenly not in use anymore because the space outgrew it, I hold onto it because I know darn well that sooner than later I’ll be onto the next organization project and wish I had it. And guess what? Your local thrift store is a treasure trove of the exact same bins that you’ll find at your favorite department store, just a quick dishwasher cycle away from looking new again.
Better yet, let’s avoid this false illusion that we need a specially made bin to be organized. Some of my favorite storage items are actually from my recycle bin. Sometimes I even shop for groceries based on the container they’re in and what I want to reuse them for.
I offer specialty recycling services. Most home clean out services are only focused on removing everything unnecessary as quickly and easily as possible. That means most items end up in the landfill. I utilize all resources available in the Seattle area. Sure it takes a little extra time, but really not much. Usable items are always donated or resold so they enjoy the next phase of life in a new home.

We do not need to feed into consumerism. Work with me, and I’ll help you think creatively with the things you have already. Sometimes new items are appropriate, and I’ll help you decide what’s necessary to work with what you have and keep your costs and consumerism to a minimum. My creative thinking and fearlessness of putting in a little elbow grease are what help me to keep life somewhat more sustainable.

How much will this cost me in the end?

Transparency is important! This is why you see our pricing listed along with each package. When you join SHL as a client, we will share all optional added services so you can make an informed choice as we put together your personalized project plan. Hourly work will be estimated as accurately as possible, though each unique space and situation can make that tough sometimes. We will always respect your budget. If you have a big list of wishes, but a limited budget, we are happy to prioritize your list, work through as much as possible, and leave you set up for success in tackling the remainder in your own time.

Do I need to be present while you work in my space?

Yes, and No…I do require that you be present in your home while I work, but you do not need to stay in the same space I am working in. I am happy to quietly work on my own, though it is very important that you are readily available for check-ins and questions along the way. This will ensure that I can work through your project efficiently and to your expectations.

Will you decide what to get rid of?

I will never discard/remove any of your belongings without your approval. Only you can make those decisions, but I am your partner in guiding you to the choices that are right for you. I encourage clients to identify any items they know are unwanted ahead of time. As I work through the space, I will set aside any items that I think may be unwanted, and we will go through that before we wrap up the project. For projects that involve a major purge, we may plan for some hours to work directly together so that I can help guide you to the best decision for each of your treasured belongings.

Will you help remove unwanted items?

YES! I know that one of the biggest obstacles in organizing is what to do with the purge pile. Because this can include a variety of items for donating, selling, or recycling, we offer a menu of add-ons to fit your needs.

Should I clean before you arrive?

Yes, just a little bit. I do ask that the spaces I work in be surface cleaned which includes sweeping, vacuuming, counter/table top wipe down, and maybe light dusting on exposed surfaces. As I dig into things, I inevitably will find more to clean and come prepared for that. Having the pre-cleaned space around the clutter helps to have the space to move things around while keeping your belongings safe and clean. Don’t have the capacity for any surface cleaning? That’s okay! We can talk through a plan that includes some pre-cleaning time. Transparent communication ahead helps me come prepared with the proper tools and PPE that may be needed.

Do you work outside Seattle?

Yes, within reason. Seattle is my primary business area, but will always consider jobs outside the city. Some locations may have additional travel fees applied, which will be clearly established in the estimate and agreement process.