• If someone moves into someone else's home, try to keep the idea of "ours" in mind. When you start thinking in terms of "yours vs. mine" it can lead to fights and hurt feelings.

• If your child moves out of the house, make sure they take their stuff with them. If you do need to store it for a while, consider the garage or renting a storage unit. Otherwise it eats up valuable living space.

• If you have a bunch of VHS tapes you no longer want, sell them or give them to a local charity. DVDs deliver better sound and picture quality, and take up less space on your shelves.

• A dark color can make your room seem small. Lighten up the walls and your space will feel more open. Getting rid of the trash doesn't hurt either.

• If you can't agree on whose table (or other item) to use in a combined household, why not sell them both and buy an item you both like with the money? It's a great way to make sure everyone feels included.