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Feel free to use this tip sheet / checklist as you tackle your own ""do-it-yourself"" organizing projects. If you would like to REPRINT or DISTRIBUTE this information, please click here for reprinting instructions.
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DOCUMENTING YOUR BELONGINGS
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- go from room to room photographing / videotaping each
- open each cabinet, drawer, and closet for a close-up shot
- take individual pictures of particularly valuable items
- include pictures of serial numbers on electronics and appliances
- don't forget larger items in the garage, basement, or outbuildings
- write a description of each item with serial number and brand name
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ITEMS TO HAVE APPRAISED
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- artwork and oriental rugs
- antiques and collectibles
- jewelry and furs
- stamp and coin collections
- silverware
- any other valuable or irreplaceable items
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ITEMS TO INCLUDE IN YOUR INVENTORY
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- clothing, shoes, accessories, and jewelry
- household furnishings, home decor, and fixtures
- games, toys, exercise machines, and recreational equipment
- kitchenware, appliances, and cooking implements
- glassware, cutlery, dishes, and other tableware
- books, CDs, video tapes, and other media
- lawn care items, tools, and outdoor equipment
- items stored away in your basement, garage, or attic
- personal items, memorabilia, family heirlooms
- antiques, art, and collectibles
- vehicles (motorbikes, bicycles, boats, ATVs, etc.)
- holiday decorations and seasonal items
- outdoor improvements (decks, outbuildings, landscaping)
- anything else that you own
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PROTECTING YOUR INVESTMENT
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- inventory will be necessary if you have to file an insurance claim
- store original inventory in fire safe or safe deposit box
- can also give a copy to insurance agent or family member
- keep a copy of your homeowner's insurance with the original
- whenever you buy something new, photograph it
- put the new photo and copy of receipt in with your inventory
- review and update your entire inventory yearly
- increase your homeowner's insurance, if necessary
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PROVING THE VALUE OF YOUR POSSESSIONS
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- prepare an aggregate estimated value for all belongings
- for especially valuable items, get a certified appraisal
- store receipts for expensive items with the inventory
- note the purchase date and price of each item
Copyright Ramona Creel, all rights reserved-- you are welcome to reprint any article, but you MUST include this resource box.
Ramona Creel is a modern Renaissance woman and guru of simplicity -- traveling the country as a full-time RVer, sharing her story of radically downsizing, and inspiring others to regain control of their own lives. As a Professional Organizer and Accountability Coach, Ramona will help you create the time and space to focus on your true priorities -- clearing away the clutter other obstacles and standing in the way of that life you've always wanted to be living. As a Professional Photographer, Ramona captures powerful images of places and people as she travels. And as a travel writer, social commentator, and blogger, she shares her experiences and insights about the world as we know it. You can see all these sides of Ramona -- read her articles, browse through her photographs, and even hire her to help get your life in order -- at www.RamonaCreel.com. And be sure to follow her on Twitter and on Facebook.
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