Planning on downsizing your home? There’s a number of reasons you may choose to do so. Maybe you’re going into retirement or your children are out of the house and you require less space. Perhaps you want to shrink your budget or simply wish for less space to maintain. No matter your reason why, downsizing your home can lead to a fresh start!
While it’s an opportunity to start anew, downsizing can also come with a lot of stress. Here are a few tips for downsizing your home to help you navigate this process and move into your new space with ease.
Plan Ahead
When it comes to moving, there’s a lot to keep in mind, especially when it comes to downsizing. Not only are you moving, you’re moving into a smaller space, so inevitably some things will have to go. You’ll need to plan ahead by giving yourself ample amounts of time to sort through potentially years worth of accumulated items so as to not overwhelm yourself.
If your new move entails a long distance move, here are a few specific things to keep in mind.
Take Measurements
Ideally, you’ll want to know the measurements of the space, so you know what you can bring, regardless of what you may want to bring. Take account of everything from wall lengths to sizes of closets.
If you aren’t yet sure where you’re going, try to nail down a general idea of what you’re looking for. Even if it’s not a perfect estimation, having a rough idea will still give you a better idea of what you’re working with.
Decide What to Keep 
From here, you’ll have a good idea of what you can keep and what you’ll need to get rid of in some way, whether it be selling, donating, or placing items in storage. Prioritize items that are high quality, multi-purpose, and/or sentimental, making a list of everything that must go to the new home or in storage. Not only will this be helpful for your move, you’ll also have an accurate and updated inventory of all your items.
Sell or Donate Quality Items
When going through your items, set aside items that are of good enough quality to be sold or donated. Unburden yourself and trash the rest as not everything will be able to be sold or donated!
Consider Self Storage Solutions
Once you’ve taken measurements (or have a general idea as to what you’re looking for) and inventory of all your items, you may find there are some items that won’t fit into your new space but you just aren’t willing to part with. In this case, it’s time to start looking into self storage options, whether that be a facility or family member’s home.
However, don’t forget a big part of downsizing is truly decluttering and starting fresh. While you can’t get rid of everything, do try to minimize what you decide to bring into your new life. Having a hard time letting go? Take pictures of your old space, so you have a way to remember it without having to bring every pillow or decorative trinket you own.
Know Your “Why”
No matter your reason for moving, you have one – a reason. Downsizing is a huge undertaking both physically and emotionally, so it’s important to both know your “why” and keep it front of mind as you go through the process. Keeping your motivation behind moving in mind will help you to navigate this process with greater ease.
Looking for any additional tips for downsizing your home, in need of assistance selling your current home, or help finding your new home, condo, or apartment in the DMV? Don’t hesitate to reach out! We offer free, no strings attached consultations to anyone who needs it.
Happy moving!
