Introduction to Downsizing Your Home
Are you ready to downsize your home? Whether you’re looking to cut back on expenses or you’re seeking a lower-maintenance lifestyle, committing to life in a smaller space can be truly empowering. While the downsizing process may seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Careful planning and expert advice can help ensure that your transition is as smooth as possible.
Here are five tips for making your downsizing journey a success…
1) Embrace the opportunity
Many homeowners see downsizing as a negative thing, and that’s understandable. Unfortunately, we live in a culture where bigger is often seen as better. The truth is, a smaller space can mean a less cluttered existence, a lower-stress day-to-day, and even a clearer head!
For this reason, we like to think of taking on less square footage as “rightsizing.” It’s not about living a smaller life. It’s about finding a place that matches your current lifestyle—and making the most of the space you do have. Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to try a brand new aesthetic on for size!
2) Start decluttering early
Sifting through years (or even decades) of belongings takes time. While you may be tempted to put it off, waiting until you have a week or two to move is far from ideal. From the bedroom closet to the junk drawer to the attic, you almost certainly have more stuff to sort through than you think.
Then there are the logistics. Coordinating pick-up and drop-off times can be a hassle, which is why you’ll want to call local donation centres as early as possible. Ideally, you should give yourself a few weeks—or even a couple of months—to pare down your possessions.
Click here to read our comprehensive guide to Rightsizing
3) Make it fit
Part of the downsizing (or “rightsizing”) process is making sure everything you decide to keep will fit nicely in your new home. This is the time to break out your measuring tape and start recording the dimensions of your furniture and major appliances—along with the rooms in any property you’re thinking of buying.
Remember: the last thing you want is to feel boxed-in. As part of your fresh start, you should have plenty of space to move freely. With that in mind, try to plan for a foot and a half (at the very least) between large pieces of furniture. If the fit is going to be tight, think about opting for more compact pieces.
4) Work together
There’s no doubt that getting organized is a big job—one that can be both stressful and time-consuming. Luckily, sharing the experience with people you care about can make it not just tolerable, but fun.
Enlisting the aid of loved ones can help you turn your decluttering spree into a time to reminisce and enjoy one another’s company. While you do that, take a moment to honour your possessions and the memories attached to them—whether you decide to let them go or not.
Of course, there are also times when it makes more sense to get through the process as efficiently as possible. When that’s the case, finding a professional downsizer may be helpful.
5) Display your memories
While a lot of possessions can be purged without a second thought, some are precious. Downsizing gives you the opportunity to think about them all—and decide which ones can help make your new living space a home.
The photos in your box under the bed could make for a tasteful gallery wall. Your family heirlooms could find their perfect home on a floating shelf in the living room.
The truth is that even brand new decor you love can feel a little cold until you warm it up. Once you decide which personal touches you’ll want to transfer over to your new property, you’ll begin to feel more comfortable parting with the rest!
When you’re ready to start the downsizing process, we’re here to help. Reach out to learn how we can ensure that your transition is as smooth as possible.
