If you’re considering moving, downsizing and decluttering can offer a simpler, more secure, lower-stress lifestyle. Downsizing can also present you with a lot to think about. Here are some tips that might make the process a bit less daunting.
- Start Early
Successful downsizing takes more time than you may realize; starting the process at least two or three months in advance can be a real benefit. - Make a Plan
Planning out the stages (with as much detail as possible) will make the process more manageable and help lessen anxiety. - Set a Timeline
The plan should include a timeline to ensure tasks are completed in order as the move approaches. The distance of the move may affect the timeframe. - Use the New Floor Plan
A floor plan of your new home– even if rough– can help determine what might go where and which pieces fit, and which don’t. - Start With “Less”
For a simple guide to think about which might not go to your future home, think “less”- less used, less valuable, less emotional. - Discard Duplicates
We all accumulate things. When downsizing, ask whether duplicates can be discarded. Do you need five different types of cooking whisks? - Use a “One Year” Rule
If something hasn’t been used or viewed within the past year, it may be a candidate for being left out of the move. - Create “YES” or “NO” Groups
Using sticky notes to label items as “yes” or “no” will help you remember which items you need to take with you. - Donate or Discard
Once items have been divided into “yes” or “no” groups, think about which would be well-appreciated donations and which need to be disposed of in other ways. - Get Help From Your Family or Friends
Friends or family can offer both helping hands and a helpful voice when it comes to downsizing. Involving them early on can make the process easier.
While downsizing can present some challenges, the benefits can pay off over the years. As your local SRES® real estate professional, I can be a great resource to help your planning.
The Center for REALTOR® Development (CRD) confers the Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation, which is an official credential of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).
