Great Homes - East SCG GLE OBG MER WAN MAS 06-18-2026

GREAT HOMES

INSPIRED SPACES TIMELESS DESIGN EFFORTLESS APPEAL

FFor generations of Long Islanders, Merrick has represented the ideal South Shore lifestyle: waterfront living, tree-lined suburban streets, a direct commute to Manhattan and a strong sense of community that keeps families rooted for decades.

or generations of Long Islanders, Merrick has represented the ideal South Shore lifestyle: waterfront living, tree-lined suburban streets, a direct commute to Manhattan and a strong sense of community that keeps families rooted for decades.

Situated in the heart of Nassau County, Merrick attracts buyers seeking luxury waterfront estates, historic charm and proximity to both New York City and the beach.

Situated in the heart of Nassau County, Merrick attracts buyers seeking luxury waterfront estates, historic charm and proximity to both New York City and the beach.

Few know Merrick’s evolution better than the mother-son real estate team of Louise and Seth Pitlake of Douglas Elliman, who have spent three decades helping buyers and sellers navigate one of Long Island’s most desirable residential markets.

Few know Merrick’s evolution better than the mother-son real estate team of Louise and Seth Pitlake of Douglas Elliman, who have spent three decades helping buyers and sellers navigate one of Long Island’s most desirable residential markets.

“We’ve been selling real estate here for a long time. I grew up here,” Seth said. “We’re mother and son, and we’ve been a team with Douglas Elliman now for 30 years.”

“We’ve been selling real estate here for a long time. I grew up here,” Seth said. “We’re mother and son, and we’ve been a team with Douglas Elliman now for 30 years.”

That deep local knowledge gives the Pitlakes a unique perspective on what continues to draw buyers to Merrick.

That deep local knowledge gives the Pitlakes a unique perspective on what continues to draw buyers to Merrick.

“Merrick is basically a very small, large town,” Seth said. “We have a lot of different neighborhoods, that all put together make Merrick what it is.”

“Merrick is basically a very small, large town,” Seth said. “We have a lot of different neighborhoods, that all put together make Merrick what it is.”

The community has long been prized as a commuter haven for Manhattan professionals who want suburban comfort without sacrificing accessibility.

The community has long been prized as a commuter haven for Manhattan professionals who want suburban comfort without sacrificing accessibility.

“We’ve always been that bedroom community to Manhattan,” Louise said. “We’re suburban enough that people feel it’s a little more relaxed here, but we are 45 minutes from the city and 45 minutes from the Hamptons, so we’re kind of in the middle of the South Shore.”

“We’ve always been that bedroom community to Manhattan,” Louise said. “We’re suburban enough that people feel it’s a little more relaxed here, but we are 45 minutes from the city and 45 minutes from the Hamptons, so we’re kind of in the middle of the South Shore.”

Phere because the value is not only in the real estate, but the value is in the town itself.

Seth Pitlake

The Long Island Rail Road’s Babylon Branch remains one of Merrick’s strongest selling points. According to Seth, access to both Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal continue to make the area attractive to professionals, executives and hybrid workers.

The Long Island Rail Road’s Babylon Branch remains one of Merrick’s strongest selling points. According to Seth, access to both Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal continue to make the area attractive to professionals, executives and hybrid workers.

“Commuting has always been one of the features of living in Merrick,” Seth said.

“Commuting has always been one of the features of living in Merrick,” Seth said.

Yet Merrick’s appeal extends beyond convenience. The community offers a fascinating blend of architectural history and modern luxury development.

of the California Mediterranean-style homes for the actors that were coming to Astoria studios,” Louise said.

of the California Mediterranean-style homes for the actors that were coming to Astoria studios,” Louise said.

Among the notable names associated with the area were Gloria Swanson and Clark Gable.

Among the notable names associated with the area were Gloria Swanson and Clark Gable.

Today, the Gable Section remains one of Merrick’s most architecturally charming and historically rich neighborhoods, blending restored homes with tasteful renovations and modern additions.

Today, the Gable Section remains one of Merrick’s most architecturally charming and historically rich neighborhoods, blending restored homes with tasteful renovations and modern additions.

Another unique neighborhood is Tiny Town, a circular residential enclave originally established as a Methodist summer campground in the 19th century.

Another unique neighborhood is Tiny Town, a circular residential enclave originally established as a Methodist summer campground in the 19th century.

“They used to have the revival meetings there,” Seth said. “It’s built in the shape of a circle — concentric circles built like a wheel.”

Shore,” Seth said.

Shore,” Seth said.

Merrick offers calm bayfront access, ideal for powerboats, jet skis and recreational boating.

Merrick offers calm bayfront access, ideal for powerboats, jet skis and recreational boating.

“When you live on the bayfront, you’re looking out at the lights of Ocean Parkway,” Seth said. Many homes offer private docks, canal access, and panoramic bay views.

“When you live on the bayfront, you’re looking out at the lights of Ocean Parkway,” Seth said. Many homes offer private docks, canal access, and panoramic bay views.

“They love being able to look out from our open bay homes here and seeing Jones Beach, the Jones Beach Theater, seeing the needle,” he said. “That’s our view.”

“They love being able to look out from our open bay homes here and seeing Jones Beach, the Jones Beach Theater, seeing the needle,” he said. “That’s our view.”

The waterfront market has appreciated, with luxury homes regularly surpassing multimilliondollar price points.

The waterfront market has appreciated, with luxury homes regularly surpassing multimilliondollar price points.

“Seeing a two in front of the house on the waterfront is not unique anymore,” Louise said.

“Seeing a two in front of the house on the waterfront is not unique anymore,” Louise said.

Even inland neighborhoods have experienced rising values. “In today’s market, people are buying at good values and renovating because they want this location,” Seth said.

access and sweeping bay views, while Jones Beach, Point Lookout and Lido Beach sit just minutes away.

access and sweeping bay views, while Jones Beach, Point Lookout and Lido Beach sit just minutes away.

“You have access to everything from Merrick,” Seth said. “You’re close to everything. It’s just a nice place to live and a nice place to be.”

“You have access to everything from Merrick,” Seth said. “You’re close to everything. It’s just a nice place to live and a nice place to be.”

For the Pitlakes, Merrick’s greatest luxury may ultimately be its staying power — a community where families return generation after generation.

For the Pitlakes, Merrick’s greatest luxury may ultimately be its staying power — a community where families return generation after generation.

“It’s a neighborhood that everyone can feel comfortable living in,” Seth said, “and know that they can be here forever and not miss anything.”

“It’s a neighborhood that everyone can feel comfortable living in,” Seth said, “and know that they can be here forever and not miss anything.”

— Christy Hinko

5 reasons buyers keep looking at Merrick

— Christy Hinko

5 reasons buyers keep looking at Merrick

1. South Shore location: Merrick offers quick access to the Long Island Rail Road, major parkways and nearby beaches, making it attractive for commuters and weekend travelers.

1. South Shore location: Merrick offers quick access to the Long Island Rail Road, major parkways and nearby beaches, making it attractive for commuters and weekend travelers.

2. Waterfront lifestyle: Marinas, canals and boating access give parts of Merrick a coastal feel without sacrificing suburban convenience.

2. Waterfront lifestyle: Marinas, canals and boating access give parts of Merrick a coastal feel without sacrificing suburban convenience.

3. Everyday Amenities: Residents point to local coffee shops, neighborhood restaurants, grocery stores and service businesses that keep daily errands close to home.

3. Everyday Amenities: Residents point to local coffee shops, neighborhood restaurants, grocery stores and service businesses that keep daily errands close to home.

4. Neighborhood character: Tree-lined streets, established residential blocks and a strong community identity appeal to both long-time homeowners and first-time buyers.

4. Neighborhood character: Tree-lined streets, established residential blocks and a strong community identity appeal to both long-time homeowners and first-time buyers.

“Merrick has a lot of history,” Louise said.

Yet Merrick’s appeal extends beyond convenience. The community offers a fascinating blend of architectural history and modern luxury development.

“Merrick has a lot of history,” Louise said.

The famed Gable Section remains one of Merrick’s most distinctive neighborhoods. Inspired by architecture popularized during Hollywood’s Golden Age, the enclave traces its roots to the film industry.

The famed Gable Section remains one of Merrick’s most distinctive neighborhoods. Inspired by architecture popularized during Hollywood’s Golden Age, the enclave traces its roots to the film industry.

“In the 1920s, a couple of developers came out to Long Island and decided they were going to build a community reminiscent

“In the 1920s, a couple of developers came out to Long Island and decided they were going to build a community reminiscent

“They used to have the revival meetings there,” Seth said. “It’s built in the shape of a circle — concentric circles built like a wheel.”

Originally composed of tiny cottages and narrow lanes, Tiny Town has evolved into one of Merrick’s most coveted residential pockets.

Originally composed of tiny cottages and narrow lanes, Tiny Town has evolved into one of Merrick’s most coveted residential pockets.

“The property values have gone up so much that most of the small houses have either been expanded on or built up,” Louise said. “It’s turned into one of the most desired neighborhoods to live in.”

“The property values have gone up so much that most of the small houses have either been expanded on or built up,” Louise said. “It’s turned into one of the most desired neighborhoods to live in.”

Merrick’s waterfront lifestyle continues to command premium prices and intense demand.

Even inland neighborhoods have experienced rising values. “In today’s market, people are buying at good values and renovating because they want this location,” Seth said.

One neighborhood that continues to attract attention from commuters and families is Merrick Woods.

One neighborhood that continues to attract attention from commuters and families is Merrick Woods.

“Merrick Woods is actually a little bit north of the railroad,” Louise said. “It looks just like the North Shore because of the foliage.”

“Merrick Woods is actually a little bit north of the railroad,” Louise said. “It looks just like the North Shore because of the foliage.”

The area’s walkability and mature landscaping create a distinct atmosphere. “You could walk to the train, to town, to any place,” Seth said. “People coming from the city love it.”

The area’s walkability and mature landscaping create a distinct atmosphere. “You could walk to the train, to town, to any place,” Seth said. “People coming from the city love it.”

5. Entertaining-friendly homes: Buyers increasingly look for backyards with pools, patios, outdoor kitchens and flexible indoor space such as finished basements for yearround gatherings.

5. Entertaining-friendly homes: Buyers increasingly look for backyards with pools, patios, outdoor kitchens and flexible indoor space such as finished basements for yearround gatherings.

Local tip: Ask about waterfront versus inland sections of Merrick; flood-zone requirements, lot sizes and boating access can vary significantly by neighborhood.

Local tip: Ask about waterfront versus inland sections of Merrick; flood-zone requirements, lot sizes and boating access can vary significantly by neighborhood.

Louise Pitlake

Lics. Real Estate Broker

M: 516-297.5260

Merrick’s waterfront lifestyle continues to command premium prices and intense demand.

“Waterfront is one of the premier features of living on the South

“Waterfront is one of the premier features of living on the South

Beyond the neighborhoods themselves, residents are drawn to Merrick’s balance of recreation, shopping and coastal living. The Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve offer walking trails, kayaking

Beyond the neighborhoods themselves, residents are drawn to Merrick’s balance of recreation, shopping and coastal living. The Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve offer walking trails, kayaking

Seth Pitlake

Lics. Real Estate Salesperson

M: 516.521.7976

O: 516.623.4500

Poolside Paradise

The new era of pools and masonry

Homeowners are investing in integrated outdoor living spaces

By Christy Hinko

The backyard has become one of the most coveted amenities in real estate, and nowhere is that more apparent than on Long Island. What began during the Covid-19 pandemic as a desire for private outdoor space has evolved into a long-term investment in lifestyle, entertaining and home value. Today's homeowners are spending less time dreaming about vacation destinations and more time creating resort-inspired retreats just steps from their back doors.

Pools remain at the center of many of these projects, but the modern backyard is about far more than swimming. Outdoor kitchens, fire features, custom masonry, artificial turf, integrated technology and carefully planned gathering spaces are reshaping the way Long Islanders use their properties.

People want hangout pools. They want five and a half feet, they want to have benches and sun decks, stadium steps.

Gurino

According to Larry Gurino, co-owner of Big Becks Pools and Pavers, a family-owned company based in Massapequa, demand for comprehensive outdoor living projects remains strong years after the pandemic boom. The company specializes in pool construction, masonry work and outdoor living design, providing a single source for homeowners looking to transform their yards. Big Becks has earned recognition as an award-winning pool builder and offers in-house design, construction and service capabilities.

"Pools are still very popular," Gurino said. "We are averaging installing two pools a week here, almost all year, except when the snow is too deep."

While the appetite for pools remains robust, the design priorities have changed significantly. Gone are the days when homeowners wanted deep diving pools designed primarily for swimming laps or showcasing a diving board.

"Deep pools with diving boards; that's gone," Gurino said. Insurance considerations have played a role in that shift, but changing lifestyles are driving it even more. Today's homeowners want spaces designed for relaxation and social interaction.

"People want hangout pools," Gurino said. "They want five and a half feet, they want to hang out, they want to have benches and sun decks, stadium steps."

One of the fastest-growing features is the sun shelf, often called a tanning ledge. These shallow platforms allow loungers to sit partially submerged in the water while children play nearby. Combined with built-in benches and wide entry steps, these features transform the pool into a social environment rather than simply a place to swim.

Industry discussions among pool owners and builders have similarly highlighted growing demand for tanning ledges and sun shelves, particularly for family-oriented entertaining spaces.

The emphasis on socializing extends beyond the pool itself. Increasingly, designers are approaching the backyard as a fully integrated outdoor living environment.

"The layout of the backyard is based on fun," Gurino said.

Rather than treating the pool, patio and outdoor kitchen as separate elements, homeowners are seeking cohesive designs that encourage interaction. Gurino said successful projects begin with understanding how families and guests will move throughout the space.

"Your outdoor kitchen and patio should not be very far from the steps in the pool, because the people that are sitting in the pool want to talk to the people at the outdoor kitchen or the people at the table," he said.

The result is a more intentional approach to site planning. Outdoor kitchens are positioned to maintain conversation between swimmers and guests. Dining areas are integrated into the overall design rather than tucked away in separate corners. Fire pits create gathering spots that extend backyard use well into the evening.

For many homeowners, these additions have become as important as the pool itself.

"The outdoor kitchen, the waterfalls, fire pits," Gurino said, listing some of the most requested features. "People are doing all kinds of different kinds of pavers."

Masonry has become a defining element of these projects. Premium paver patios, natural stone accents, retaining walls and custom seating areas help establish a sense of permanence and sophistication. On Long Island, Cambridge pavers remain one of the most recognizable brands among homeowners, according to Gurino.

Another trend gaining momentum is artificial

Masonry and added water elements have

turf. Once viewed primarily as a commercial landscaping material, today's high-quality synthetic grass products are finding a place in residential properties.

"A lot of people are doing turf," Gurino said.

Artificial turf is particularly attractive in backyards dominated by pools and hardscape features. With less natural lawn remaining, homeowners are looking for ways to reduce maintenance while maintaining a clean appearance.

"You don't have to have the guy come in the back, cut the grass, blow all the leaves and grass clippings into the pool," Gurino said.

The material also appeals to families with pets, especially when paired with irrigation systems that help keep surfaces clean.

Perhaps the biggest shift since Covid, however, is not the specific products homeowners choose but the way they approach projects. Many homeowners no longer want to coordinate multiple contractors for excavation, masonry, electrical work, landscaping and pool installation.

"I think people are getting to a point where they don't like to coordinate too many contractors for a single project anymore," Gurino said.

Instead, homeowners increasingly prefer a specialized experience managed by a single company. The trend reflects both convenience and the growing complexity of outdoor living projects, which often require extensive coordination among multiple trades.

Gurino believes his company's ability to manage every phase of construction in-house is a major advantage.

"We specialize in this turnkey experience, handling all of the details of the project with our customers," he said.

That guidance often extends beyond technical construction decisions. Homeowners frequently change their minds after seeing projects begin to take shape, whether adjusting pool depths, adding sun shelves or modifying layouts.

The collaborative approach resonates with homeowners making significant investments in their properties. Many are treating backyard projects with the same level of customization and planning traditionally reserved for interior renovations.

As Long Island's housing market continues to emphasize lifestyle amenities, outdoor spaces are increasingly viewed as extensions of the home rather than separate recreational areas. Pools are still central to that vision, but they are now part of a larger ecosystem that includes masonry, landscaping, technology and entertainment.

For homeowners investing in Long Island properties, the goal is no longer simply to install a pool. It is to create a destination—one that blends comfort, functionality and year-round enjoyment. The post-pandemic backyard has evolved into a private resort, and on Long Island, that trend shows no signs of slowing down.

For nearly 14 years, Scott Wallace, a real estate professional with Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty, has combined financial expertise, market knowledge and a client-first philosophy to help Long Island homeowners navigate one of life’s most significant decisions.

Scott entered real estate in 2012 after a successful career in banking, where he served as a senior vice president at GreenPoint Bank, and also served with North Fork Bank and Capital One. That experience continues to shape his approach today.

“My prior career gives me great insight, definitely having the business acumen, negotiation skills and everything it takes to be a professional,” Scott said.

Known for his thorough preparation, Scott believes successful real estate transactions begin with understanding the people behind the property.

Before discussing pricing or marketing, he takes time to learn about his clients’ goals, plans and connection to their homes.

“I need to understand what my client’s plan is,” Scott said. “I ask, ‘Where are you going?’ ‘How long have you been in this house?’ ‘How do you feel about leaving this house?’ Some people really treat the house like an investment.

Others treat it like it’s a family member.”

That personalized approach allows him to tailor strategies for each client. During listing appointments, Scott tours the home, discusses improvements and gathers insights before developing a market analysis and pricing recommendation.

“I’ll make sure that we aren’t

Strong Activity. Proven Results.

just coming up with a number off the top of our heads,” Scott said. “There’s data, science, there’s also a lot of art that goes into putting together a market analysis and coming up with the right price.”

For Scott, however, pricing is only one piece of the puzzle.

“It’s not just the price,” Scott said. “It’s strategy. It’s the person you’re hiring, the company they represent and their track record.”

A longtime Nassau County resident, Scott’s familiarity with the area’s neighborhoods, schools and lifestyle amenities provides a valuable perspective for buyers and sellers.

Beyond real estate, Scott maintains a strong presence in the community through local advertising, sponsorships and

recognition programs celebrating student achievements.

At the heart of his business is a commitment to accessibility, communication and trust.

“I genuinely care,” Scott said. “Aside from talking about the house, I need to know what’s important to my clients.”

That blend of professionalism, preparation and genuine concern for his clients continues to distinguish Scott in Long Island’s competitive real estate market.

— Christy Hinko

Scott Wallace Real Estate Salesperson Global Real Estate Advisor Gold Circle of Excellence

From plans to reality

Walking the blueprint

How Walk Your Plans is transforming real estate design on Long Island

By Christy Hinko

In an era dominated by digital renderings and virtual walkthroughs, a Long Island-based business is taking a decidedly different approach to architectural visualization: bringing plans to life at full scale — on the ground.

At Walk Your Plans Long Island, clients don’t just review blueprints. They physically step inside them.

The West Babylon franchise location is part of a rapidly expanding national brand headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio. The company is in the midst of an aggressive growth phase, aiming to establish more than 100 locations nationwide, with dozens already in development.

“The company is in the midst of trying to roll out like 120 locations across the country,” Vee said. “Not all open yet, but they have agreements signed.”

The West Babylon location is the exclusive location for Nassau and Suffolk counties, being the region’s sole provider of this immersive planning experience.

A One-to-One Experience

The concept is deceptively simple. Clients submit architectural plans in PDF format, which are then projected at full, one-to-one scale across the studio’s floor and walls. What results is a life-size rendering of a home, office, or commercial space—allowing users to walk through rooms, hallways and layouts before construction begins.

“It’s real; it’s two dimensional on the floor and walls, but it’s blown up to one-to-one scale,” Vee said. “If the hallway says it’s five feet, you put a tape measure down — it’s five feet in our warehouse.”

Unlike virtual reality or 3D modeling, the system relies on physical movement and spatial awareness to identify potential design flaws or inefficiencies. Clients can test everything from kitchen flow to closet dimensions in real time.

“You really do get a good feel of the actual space,” Vee said.

From Personal Project to Business Venture

Vee said many franchise owners’ path to opening their own Walk Your Plans service often begins with their own home renovation project. He said one recent project saved a homeowner more than $15,000 on potential design flaws or things that needed to be changed after experiencing their architect’s plans for their kitchen renovation.

“The whole idea is you want to have it the way you want it before you build it,” Vee said. “Because if you build it and then have to rip it down, that’s where the dollars stack up.” The Long Island facility opened in May 2025.

Broad Industry Appeal

While homeowners make up a significant portion of the clientele, the service is gaining traction across the real estate and construction sectors.

“It’s across the whole lot — architects, builders, contractors, even commercial real estate,” Vee said.

Commercial clients, in particular, benefit from the ability to test layouts for efficiency and compliance. Office tenants can evaluate workspace configurations, while restaurant owners can fine-tune seating arrangements and traffic flow.

“Every square inch is very important to them,” he said. “They want to make sure you have enough room for people to pull out chairs, and you’re not bumping into ADA requirements.”

The technology also offers unique accessibility insights.

“The beauty of this is someone in a wheelchair can actually wheel through the space and see how it feels,” Vee said.

Identifying Costly Mistakes

One of the platform’s biggest advantages is its ability to uncover design flaws before construction begins — saving clients significant money in change orders.

“I’ve had people that have made as few as five changes and as many as 15,” Vee said. “A conservative change order is about $2,500. You’ve already saved yourself multiple times what you’re spending here.”

Among the most common issues: poorly sized closets and bathrooms.

“I would say it’s a toss-up between closet space and bathroom showers,” he said.

Kitchen layouts are another frequent pain point, particularly the spacing between islands and cabinetry.

“A lot of people change where the appliances are or how the island is set up because of flow and function,” Vee said.

Accessible and Scalable

The service is designed to accommodate projects of all sizes —from small bathroom renovations to 10,000-squarefoot custom homes.

A typical 3,500- to 4,000-square-foot home takes about an hour to walk through, while larger properties may require up to two hours. The studio can project nearly 2,000 square feet at once, with the ability to shift the layout to follow larger designs.

“We have done everything here from condos to palatial estates,” Vee said.

The Future of Planning

be prorated.

“If you’re spending $100,000 on a kitchen, is a few hundred dollars worth it to get it right? Probably,” he said.

A Complement to Digital Design

While many kitchen and bath retailers offer 3D renderings, Vee sees Walk Your Plans as a critical next step in the design process.

“You can see it on a computer screen, but it’s not the same as walking it,” he said.

The company is actively pursuing partnerships with design showrooms and retailers to integrate the service into earlier phases of project planning.

Growing Awareness

Despite its benefits, Vee said awareness remains one of the biggest challenges.

“A lot of people don’t know about it,” he said. “When they come in, they say, ‘I wish I had this a couple of months ago.’” Marketing efforts include outreach to professional organizations such as the American Institute of Architects (AIA), as well as social media campaigns targeting homeowners.

As the real estate and construction industries continue to evolve, services like Walk Your Plans may become an increasingly standard part of the design process—bridging the gap between concept and reality.

For Long Island homeowners and developers, the opportunity to “walk before you build” is no longer a futuristic idea — it’s a practical tool with measurable returns.

At Walk Your Plans, the mission is straightforward.

“It gives you a better feel and comfortability that your space is what you want,” Vee said. “Why not get it right the first time?”

Walk Your Plans Long Island is located at 991 Peconic Ave. in West Babylon and is available by appointment only. Visit walkyourplanslongisland.com or call 631-804-7428 to learn more.

Home o rganization

Less clutter, more summer

Organizing tips to refresh your home this season

By Christy Hinko

As summer settles in and we spend more time entertaining, traveling and enjoying the longer days, many of us are taking a fresh look at our spaces. Closets, garages, basements and kitchen cabinets that have accumulated clutter throughout the year often become more noticeable during the busy summer season. While spring may traditionally be associated with cleaning and renewal, summer offers an equally valuable opportunity to refresh the home environment. According to professional organizer Alice Z. Markinson of Organize With Alice, the key to success lies in simplicity, consistency and a realistic approach.

Seasonal Reset

"The days are getting longer and we’re spending more time outdoors. It’s easier for us to see what is cluttering our homes and our lives in general," Markinson says. For homeowners preparing properties for sale—or simply aiming to enjoy a more functional and peaceful living space — spring organization can also enhance perceived value. Clean, uncluttered interiors photograph better, show more effectively and feel larger to prospective buyers.

Market Appeal

In real estate, presentation matters. A tidy, streamlined home signals care and attention, while excess clutter can distract from a property’s best features. Even modest organizing efforts can elevate how a home is perceived, both online and in person.

Start Small

Markinson emphasizes that the process doesn’t need to be overwhelming. In fact, one of the most common mistakes she sees is homeowners attempting to tackle too much at once.

“Start small,” she advises. “Instead of tackling an entire room, focus on one category or zone, like a single drawer, your entryway, or your cleaning supplies. Small wins build momentum and prevent overwhelm.”

This incremental approach is especially useful in busy households, where time is limited and motivation can quickly fade. Completing a manageable task — organizing a drawer or clearing a countertop—creates immediate progress.

Edit First

Equally important, Markinson says, is resisting the urge to buy storage solutions before addressing the root issue: excess belongings.

“Edit before you organize,” she explains. “Too often we run out and buy pretty bins and containers, but what we really need to do first is to look at what we have.”

This step requires honesty. Items should be sorted into keep, donate and discard piles. While it may be tempting to hold onto rarely used possessions, focusing on what is actively used and needed leads to a more streamlined result.

Seasonal Switch

Seasonal transitions also present a prime opportunity to reclaim space. As temperatures rise, bulky winter gear can be moved out of the way to make room for lighter, more frequently used items.

“Spring into summer is the perfect time to rotate wardrobes, bedding, and outdoor items,” Markinson says. “Store heavy winter coats, boots and accessories in less accessible spaces, and bring forward lighter, everyday items.”

She suggests taking advantage of underutilized areas, such as high shelves or the backs of doors. This rotation frees up valuable space and makes everyday routines more efficient.

Smart Systems

For families, organization is most effective when it becomes a shared responsibility rather than a solo effort. Markinson recommends creating systems that are simple enough for everyone in the household to follow.

“The best organizing systems are the ones you will actually use and maintain,” she says. “It’s important to get all family members on board.”

Designated spaces for commonly used items — whether in kitchens, playrooms or entryways — help reduce daily friction and keep clutter from returning.

Family Effort

Setting aside time to organize together can reinforce these systems. Whether it’s a weekly reset or seasonal refresh, involving everyone fosters accountability and consistency across shared spaces.

Daily Habits

Still, even the most thoughtfully organized home requires ongoing maintenance. Markinson is quick to point out that organization is not a one-time project but a long-term habit.

“Remember that organization is not a one time project,” she says. “It is an ongoing habit. Set aside time each day and/or a short block of time each week to return items to their designated places.”

This mindset shifts the focus from perfection to consistency, helping homeowners maintain order without major overhauls.

Lasting Impact

For those preparing to list a home, consistent organization reduces the stress of last-minute cleaning and ensures the property remains show-ready. For others, it simply creates a more functional and calming environment.

“With a thoughtful approach and consistent habits, you can create a space that feels lighter, calmer and ready for the season ahead,” Markinson says.

As spring unfolds, that sense of clarity — both physical and mental — may be the most valuable result of all.