If you have determined that living in a smaller space is a smart move, here are some tips for downsizing to make that transition as easy as possible.
First of all, acknowledge that downsizing can be difficult. Even though it may make logical and financial sense, the move can bring up a variety of emotions. Give yourself permission to “feel the feels,” but don’t get stuck in anything negative that doesn’t serve your greater good.
Instead, develop the mindset of embarking on a new adventure … a fresh start.
Next, determine exactly how much down in size you’re going. If you need help finding the perfect smaller home to fit your new lifestyle, we’d be happy to assist you. Simply call 559-490-0207 to get started.
You need to know just how much space you’re moving to so you can determine which of your current belongings will fit in your new home.
And you need to know more than total square feet. You need measurements of all the rooms, closets, cabinets, and drawers so you can make sure you take with you only what will fit.
Once you have an idea of where you’re going, figure out what to take with you. You’ll need to make a decision about each item you own — pack it to take with you or not.
Before you put something in the “Pack It” pile or box, ask yourself these questions:
- Do I use it?
- Does it make me happy?
- Do I have duplicates?
- Can something else do what it does?
- Will it fit the new space (this is especially important for furniture)?
You’re going to have less space, so you don’t need to take things that don’t bring you joy or that you no longer use or need.
If an item doesn’t make the “Pack It” cut, you’ll need to decide what to do with the things you’re not taking with you.
With these items, you have some options to consider, including:
- Gift sentimental items to family members who will enjoy having them.
- Sell still-useful items for cash.
- Donate still-useful items for a tax deduction (be sure to consult your tax professional).
- Discard anything that is broken or no longer useful.
If you have an emotional attachment to anything that you’re not taking with you, consider taking photos and using them to make a “treasure book” that you can thumb through when you’re feeling nostalgic.
Lastly, deal with paper records. Your files can take a lot of space, and with technology you may not need to move all that paper to your new smaller home.
You can scan and store many documents and records digitally. Keep physical documents only of the things that you absolutely must have the original document for (birth certificates, marriage licenses, automobile pink slips, financial and legal documents, etc.). Consult your lawyer, financial advisor, and/or tax professional for guidance on what documents you must keep.
We hope you find these tips for downsizing useful. The Foxen Team has helped clients find homes for all the different seasons of their lives. We’re here to help you, too.
Send us a message or call us at 559-490-0207 today to learn more about how we can help and to get started.