The idea of downsizing has gotten more popular recently. From Baby Boomers who want to live more simply to Gen Xers who prefer to be minimalists, it’s the perfect solution. But when is the best time to downsize your home?
Have you thought about downsizing, but not sure when the time is right? Here are some ideas to make downsizing stress-free. You’ll wish you had done it years ago!
Waiting Too Long
Frankly, the biggest mistake people make is waiting too long to downsize. Unfortunately, many people delay until someone gets sick, a spouse passes away, or they lose their job. Then they try to move and make major decisions while grieving or worrying. Those are never the best circumstances. If you’re already thinking about downsizing – then do it! Create a plan while everything is still going well. Give yourself at least six months to get ready. Talk with your family and friends, look for a new place, and start going through your belongings.
Ask Yourself Some Questions
Before you start your move, as yourself a few questions: How much room do you really need? Be realistic. Can you truly go from a 4,000+ sq. ft. mansion to a 400 sq. ft. apartment? How much room and money will you need to be comfortable? If you enjoy entertaining friends and family, can you maintain your lifestyle in a smaller home? Will you need room to care for an elderly parent or when the kids come to visit?
Moving to a smaller residence means letting go of things. De-clutter your home just one closet or one room at a time. Put things in piles of “Keep”, “Toss”, “Donate”, “Give Away to Family or Friends”, and “Undecided”.
If you don’t use it on a regular basis, now is the time to let it go. Make sure your new space will fit what you keep. That’s the idea behind downsizing. If you want to reduce expenses and space, this is the right choice and the right time.
Don’t Focus On ‘Stuff’
It may not be easy to leave a home filled with memories, so before you move, take lots of pictures and ask the neighbors to pose with you. Repot clippings of your favorite plants. You’ll realize it’s the memories that are important and everything else is just ‘stuff’.
Don’t Throw Everything Away
As you start to downsize your life, you may begin to feel overwhelmed. Before you throw everything in the trash, take a deep breath and slow down. You have a several options.
Ask family, friends, and neighbors to take a few things they’ve admired. Call a local charity. Many have trucks and will pick up donations.
Rummage sales can be a hassle and never give you the true value of your belongings, especially if you have antiques and collectibles. Consider contacting Estate Buyers who will buy a range of collectible items. Whether it’s the entire contents of your home or just a few items, we have qualified consultants who will provide a free evaluation. We can help make moving and downsizing a breeze.