As a homeowner, you may consider moving to a more comfortable space for a simpler life or to trim your expenses. According to a recent survey, millions find themselves priced out of home buying and renting amid increasing mortgage rates and inflation, making the need to save costs or downsize homes even more vital. Whatever your reason, downsizing is no small feat and can reshape your lifestyle and financial situation. So, before you take this step, check out the four tips below to ensure a stress-free and successful process.
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Have a proper plan
Time is one of the most crucial elements of convenient downsizing, as you need to give yourself enough before the big move. Sorting through a lifetime of belongings, deciding what to keep, and packing up your household is no small feat. It’s a process that can take several months and may stir up some emotions along the way. To make the journey smoother, plan properly and take things one step at a time. Consider enlisting the help of a professional moving service, and don’t forget to book early to secure your preferred moving date.
Consider your space
Once you’ve settled on your new home, it’s time to think about the available space. Take a good look at the floor plans, measure each room, and consider your furniture and appliance needs. Assess what items will fit into your new space and whether there’s room for things you already have. Pay attention to storage options like cabinets, closets, and shelving, which might be different or more limited in your new place. While decluttering is a great opportunity to donate or recycle items, there might be possessions that don’t fit but are still essential. In such cases, a self-storage unit can be a valuable resource.
Get the family involved
You can make the downsizing process more fun by turning it into a family event. Involve your loved ones in the sorting and preparation phases. For adult children, it’s an opportunity to take charge of their personal items in your home and be in the loop of what items you intend to discard or give away. Consider gifting special items and mementoes to loved ones during this process. Collaborate on a plan, assign tasks clearly, and communicate openly to ensure a seamless and stress-free moving experience for everyone involved.
Take a breather
Downsizing can be overwhelming, but it’s no excuse to put your self-care on the back burner. Take a moment to catch your breath, step back, and assess your progress. Remember to give yourself the time and space needed before diving back into the process. Before you know it, you’ll be settling into your new home. Moving comes with its share of tasks, so consider keeping a moving checklist to track month-to-month and week-to-week responsibilities leading up to the big day. You can also employ some simple breathing techniques to de-stress. With the right checklist and a few tips, you can make this exciting and busy time less stressful.
