Tips for Downsizing in 2022

Are you planning to move and feel overwhelmed? Perhaps you are making a transition to a smaller home and have many years of memories and keepsakes. You understand that “downsizing” is the way of the world. Sometimes downsizing is just about clearing space and making room for the people and experiences in your life rather than the “stuff.” Most likely you have worked very hard to purchase your belongings, but maybe the old adage “you can’t take it with you” rings a bit of truth.

But where do you start?

Here are some steps to help make your transition easier. “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” (Lao Tzu)

BEGIN EARLY. If you have time on your side, you will find this process much less stressful. Put some dates on your calendar, for example “Next Thursday clean out 2 file drawers in my office.” Goal setting will get you there. If you need coaching, help is available.

“WHY AM I KEEPING THIS?”

There are items you must keep out of necessity, and many others that you WANT to keep. But WHY? If they were valuable at the time of purchase and have depreciated, it’s hard to let go. What is the value? Do you have current appraisals? Consider the monetary value, the sentimental value, the resale value, the comfort value. Then consider the cost involved in moving the items. Moving costs have increased, the less you move, the less the cost involved.

Now ask yourself again, WHY do I want to keep this? Family heirlooms are some of the most important items to us, but your grandfather’s war medal may be more practical to move than his antique desk. Think this through, it will come to you!

Remember, it is often the memories that we are attached to, not the particular items.

"WILL I NEED THIS ITEM?"

There are many items that we need and some we may think we need. You didn't move your snowblower to Florida did you? Will you bring your china service for 12 to your new condo if you prefer dining out?

"WHAT DO I WANT FROM THIS ITEM?"

If you believe your items are valuable they might be resold. Consider the price you might get compared to the cost of moving. If they have depreciated then your return on investment might be the cost saved by NOT moving them.

“HOW MUCH WILL IT COST TO REPLACE?”

If it serves you well and you will love it, you can fit it and it's cost prohibitive to replace it, pack it up with glee and use it. Downsizing isn't about getting rid of EVERYTHING you treasure.

"DOES THIS BRING ME JOY?"

If you are not enjoying items, consider the joy of sharing them with others.

Do you love it? If it doesn’t take up a lot of space then be sure to feature it in your new home somewhere special and admire it rather than tuck it in a drawer.

“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” (Winston Churchill)

"HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO MOVE IT?"

When you are downsizing remember that heavy, fragile, or bulky items cost more to pack and transport than smaller, lighter or “softer” items. These may well be the first items you want to concentrate on eliminating.

"DO I HAVE ROOM FOR THIS?"

If you are moving from a large home to a smaller space, can you fit everything that you currently own? Well in advance of your move is a good time to plan your new space. Determine where you will put your current items when you move. If you are not adept in space planning we can help with this.

"AM I A STORAGE FACILITY?"

Did you once have empty closets but others have asked to store items in your home? When you move do you want to bring them with you? If you have a hard time saying “no” consider having them delivered by a professional service. Every corner of your real estate is precious.

GET ANOTHER OPINION

Find others who are willing to help; family, friends, an assistant or a professional. They don't have to do any heavy lifting, advice is free and helping is human nature. Often having a listener will help with the process of letting go.

I CAN’T DECIDE!

Still having a hard time letting go? Take videos or photos of the items you will not be moving, you’ll be able to keep their memory without taking up space. Enjoy their memory in a new way.

You have your reasons for moving and have made the best decision for you. If you have found your perfect home, congratulations, you've made great strides. Making your new house a comfortable home that is perfect for you is your final goal. Preparing your current home for sale is a tool that to get you there.

Downsizing can be a taxing and emotional process. With the right mindset and plan, it is RIGHTSIZING! Professional help is available. Consider hiring a move manager to reduce your stress. If you are planning we are available for a complimentary consultation.

We are here to help, every step of the way.