Realtors and Stagers... It's Time to Eliminate Another One of Those "D" Words!

Hi Kathy--I don't use "downsize" with clients any more than "declutter", but have used both in other places.  My husband and I just delightfully downsized and I didn't think it had anything to do with age--just got tired of all the maintenance that went with a really big house and pool and land. 

I prefer the word simplify. Downside inplies my excess is too much.  :)

I think of downsizing as very freeing....but I can see where it would have a negative vibe. Not only for age reasons but in these economic times many are forced to downsize. Your suggestion of 'simplify' is great.

Kathy, I do remember shrinkies!!! I can also see just how the word downsize could be a negative. I think I'm shrinking as we speak! Hubby and I are attempting to simplify! I have to say though, I don't think we are very good at it. Really great post!

Excellent, Kathy.  That 55+ crowd is in that nether world.  It's kind of like being 12.  You're not a little kid, and you're not a teenager.  You're a tween.  A 55+ is not young or old.  But, it is time to start thinking about being old enough to retire.  Downsizing when you know you've got a lot of productive years ahead can be tough.  Good post!

I use the word downsize because most of my clients who call about the local 55+ communities have already faced the reality!

Great post, Kathy! I agree Maureen, simplify is a better word.

I also have to mention that many consumers use these words. I've had clients say, "I know we need to declutter the home..." before I ever stepped a foot in it. Sometimes these words can mean something different to a client and that can be a good thing. For example, if they know they need to declutter, then I can emphasis it in my presentation and go over that with them.

I agree with many of the comments downsizing or decluttering can mean different things to different people. So much of the time it has to do with the person's attitude. Are they embracing changes in their life and looking FORWARD. Or are they want to hold on to the PAST. I know people that ar 60+ that haven't thought about slowing down and others that are retired. 

Having spent most of yesterday curating a client's built-in bookshelves, we discussed how much she's looking forward to downsizing simplifying her life, and opening doors to new opportunities!

Kathy, I can see where this would have a negative connotation, especially with some who may have lost their job due to downsizing.

Dear Kathy ~ This is a fantastic post!  I have gone through this with my parents.  I think that "simplify" is a much better phrase and is received best, especially with my Dad.   I think though because of many factors they are stuck because "downsize" may have struck them as a negative transition they didn't want to face.  In fact, my Mom wanted to "up-size", my Dad to stay the same, or go for "simplify", but may be have a second home, etc....well to share all would be too complex.  It is extremely difficult as stages are reached in life.  When describing though I agree "simplify" is a much easier, & a more considerate approach.  You of course are wonderful in that way.  Thanks very much for sharing!

Hi Kathy, I agree with your sentiments on this post and the previous post you made about "declutter." I think simplify is a great word to use, or other things like clearing out unnecessary things, cleaning up, organize, or even just prepare for moving. As long as their is a spin on the positive, I like it.

Kathy, great discussion. I love the word "simplify", I also sometimes say "let's be more practical".

I agree. I try not to use that word, especially with clients.  I like to use the word 'edit' or 'simplify'.  I like  'right-size' as opposed to downsize as well. Good post.

Kathy - a little late to the party, but I use edit a lot.  And simplify.  There is a time in life when you don't need six pairs of black wool pants after all.

I've never thought of "downsize" as a negative word.  I've not had anyone offended or bothered by the use, but then again I'm not sure I use it that often.  My thoughts are that whenever possible we should be as sensitive to the clients' situation and adjust our advice to fit their needs.  Each client is unique in their sensitivities.  
"Consolidate" is a pretty good word. 

Kathy:

I use downsize because my friends and customers use the word.  But, from now on I will be more sensitive and use simplify.