Tips Downsizing There are many ways to make the process of downsizing easier:
The power of two
Start sorting and packing about two months before the planned move date. And limit your work to two-hour blocks to keep from getting physically and emotionally overwhelmed.
Know the new floorplan
Take pictures and careful measurements of the new home / space to determine just how much you need to downsize.
Begin with the easy stuff
The things you care less about are most likely stored in the basement, garage or a shed. Start there.
Try not to store things
Avoid the urge to just stick things in storage until you have more time. Make the tough decisions now, move on and save yourself the storage costs.
Use colored stickers
Once you decide whether to keep, donate or throw something away, label it with a sticker.
Call the kids
Give adult children a deadline for collecting their belongings and mementos.
Make this an opportunity to bequeath
It will be more fun to see your granddaughter use your china at the next family gathering than knowing she’ll have it after you’re gone.
Consider selling your home furnished
Your home may be more valuable to buyers furnished, especially if it’s in a resort area. Plus, you’ll drastically reduce your moving costs.
Call on the National Association of Move Managers
For a fee, Certified Senior Move Managers can help with the entire downsizing process, providing expert advice at each step along the way.
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