Reset Your Home for the New Year

There’s something about the start of a new year that makes us crave a fresh start. While we can’t always control what the year brings, we can control our space—and resetting your home is one of the fastest ways to feel calmer, more organized, and ready to take on whatever comes next.

If the idea of a full-home overhaul feels overwhelming, don’t worry. This reset is all about high-impact, low-stress changes that won’t break the bank (or your back). Let’s start with decluttering.

The 5 Best Places to Declutter First

1. Closets (Yes, All of Them)

From bedroom closets to hallway and coat closets, this is where clutter loves to hide.

Tip: If you didn’t wear it, use it, or love it in the last year—it’s time to let it go. Bonus: donating gently used items gives them a second life and you get a tax write-off.

2. Kitchen Cabinets & Pantry

Expired spices, duplicate gadgets, mismatched containers—sound familiar?

Quick win: Clear countertops instantly make your kitchen feel cleaner and more spacious.

3. Bathrooms

Old makeup, half-used products, and towels that have seen better days take up valuable space.

Rule of thumb: If it’s expired, empty, or you don’t reach for it—out it goes.

4. Paper Piles & Junk Drawers

Mail, manuals, kids’ school papers, random cords… this category sneaks up fast.

Solution: Keep only what’s actionable or sentimental and shred the rest.

5. Garage or Laundry Room

You don’t need to tackle the entire garage—just one wall or corner makes a huge difference.

Focus on: broken items, unused sports gear, and “I might need this someday” stuff.

5 Affordable Projects That Make a Big Impact

1. Fresh Paint (Strategic, Not Everywhere)

A gallon of paint goes a long way. Touch up scuffed walls or repaint a small space like a bathroom, entryway, or laundry room.

Best colors: warm whites, soft greiges, or light neutrals to brighten everything up.

2. Swap Hardware

Replacing cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, or door handles is one of the easiest upgrades.

Cost-effective & impactful: It instantly modernizes kitchens and bathrooms.

3. Upgrade Lighting

Change outdated fixtures or simply swap bulbs for warmer, brighter light.

Pro tip: Good lighting makes everything look cleaner and more intentional.

4. Refresh Your Entryway

Your entry sets the tone for the entire home. Add hooks, a small bench, or a mirror.

Result: Less clutter and a more welcoming first impression.

5. Organize with Purpose

Use baskets, bins, and drawer dividers to give everything a “home.”

Focus areas: pantry, linen closet, under-sink cabinets.

The Takeaway

You don’t need a full renovation to feel like your home has a fresh start. Decluttering a few key areas and tackling simple, affordable projects can completely shift how your space feels—and how you feel in it. A reset home creates less stress, more function, and a sense of peace that carries into every part of your life. And if you’re thinking about selling this year? These same changes also add serious appeal for buyers. Here’s to a lighter, calmer, more intentional home in the new year. ✨

Hey Inland Empire, I’m Candice Newman! I’ve had the incredible fortune of being born and raised in this amazing community, and I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. I currently live in Alta Loma with my husband, Jonathan, our son, Trevor, and our dog, Ruger! I’m a real estate agent with a passion for finding new places to explore in the Foothill Communities. When I'm not selling homes, you can find me cheering my son on at his baseball games, exercising, spending time in our local mountains, heading to the lake, cooking, or watching the Dodgers slay the Giants (I was born and raised an Angels fan, but the Dodgers have taken over the household!). I'll never have enough Mexican food and Italian food in my life. I’m looking forward to connecting with you soon! See you around town! Candice.Newman.Realty@gmail.com | (909) 367-3280 DRE: 01924842