Top Tips for Downsizing
Whether you are a recent empty nester, you’re moving from a house to a condo, or you’re just looking to cut back, you’ll have to do some downsizing. Downsizing can be an overwhelming process, so make it less stressful by following our top tips for downsizing.
Make a list. Long before your move, make a list of all the items you can’t live without. This list will help you narrow down what you can and cannot afford to take with you to your smaller home.
Thin out your belongings. Even though we don’t like to admit it, we have way too much “stuff” that is taking up way too much space. If you haven’t used it in months, you have duplicates, or it’s just clutter, get rid of it! Paper is the real destroyer. Go though all your files and shred what you no longer need.
Get an objective opinion. If you are struggling to decide on whether or not to keep that grandfather clock that has been broken for five years, get an objective opinion. Someone without sentimental ties to your “stuff” will help you clearly assess what you do and don’t need.
Sell, sell, sell! Part with the things you don’t need and sell them for cash! Have a yard sale, post items on Craigslist, advertise on Facebook, or even advertise in the classifieds of your local newspaper. The more you sell, the easier the downsizing will be.
Measure your furniture. You will need to know how well your furniture will (or won’t) fit in your new, downsized home. Measure all pieces of furniture and compare that to room measurements of your new space, or floor plans that you may have available to you. Try using Better Homes and Gardens’ Arrange-A-Room online software to simplify the process. It requires registration but is free!
Give yourself plenty of storage options. Make use of all of the available storage space you can get your hands on in your new home. Assessing exactly how much of the new space will be dedicated to storage will give you and idea how much you need to dispose of before moving in. Ottomans that open up, wall-mounted shelving, medicine cabinets, and under-bed storage boxes will become your best friends. Check out Ikea and The Container Store for great storage options.
Enjoy. You’ve now entered the territory of smaller living. You no longer have to worry about maintaining a home too big for your needs. You have simplified your life…relax and enjoy it!
Cesi Pagano
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