How to Start a Home Organization Business

Last Updated: January 4, 2020 References Approved

If you are organized by nature, you have a gift that others may be willing to pay for. Getting rid of clutter and getting organized can be a big challenge to many people who lack organizing skills and are overwhelmed by the task. Offer your organizing services in the areas of home, garage and closet organization for a business that is fun and profitable.

Steps

1
Research the industry and your local market. The National Association of Professional Organizers provides information on how to start a home organization business as well as lists of organizers in your area.^{[1]
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Research source} Check out what organizing services others are offering already to find a specialty with low competition. You could choose to specialize in a specific area, like garage, home office or closet organization.
2
Volunteer your time to get experience and build a portfolio. If friends and family always ask you to help them get organized, offer your services for free, and be sure to take before and after photographs. Volunteer your services at local retirement homes and other agencies. This is a good way to get used to working with others, which is a lot different than doing organization projects in your own home.^{[2]
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3
Work on your business and interpersonal skills. Your volunteer work will uncover some areas you need to work on. In addition, learn to use a computer, keep records and basic budgeting and accounting skills.
4
Join professional groups like the National Association of Professional Organizers and other smaller organizations. Read journals and books and take classes to learn how to start a home organization business and run it successfully.^{[3]
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5
Look for a job in an organizing related field. Working as an administrative assistant, event coordinator, or any job that requires organizing people and resources will lend credibility to your experience.
6
Use the Internet to market and build your business. Blogs about organizing are very popular. Once you start a blog, comment on other blogs and participate in organizing challenges to get more traffic and show off your skills. Make some extra money by selling organizing products on your blog or website.^{[4]
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7
Offer virtual organizing services if you don't have time to work in homes while you are getting started. Have clients send photos and descriptions of their problem areas. Recommend steps to get the organizing projects done on their own, as well as organizing products to fit their needs and budget.
8
Find reliable vendors of organizing products. Look for different alternatives to fit your clients' styles and budgets. Baskets, boxes, bins and files are just some of the products you will need. Seek wholesale opportunities that will give you enough stock for your projects as well as some items that you can sell at a profit. Develop a system for ordering supplies and equipment quickly as needed.
9
Get certified by the National Association of Professional Organizers. You'll need to satisfy educational and work experience requirements and pay a fee. Membership benefits include training, resources, and listing in the directory.^{[5]
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Get advice about taxes, finances, insurance and business setup. Your local Small Business Administration office provides mentoring and advice.

Community Q&A

Question

How can I get insured and bonded?

Community Answer

To become bonded, you must first determine whether you need a surety or fidelity bond. The important difference is that surety bonds are required by a third party (usually the government) to protect itself or the public, and fidelity bonds are insurance for you or your business.
Question

What is the average cost of a home organizer?

Community Answer

It depends on your area, their range of experience, and services offered. I would expect to pay at least $30 to $50 per hour though.