It’s a big decision to sell your house and move into a smaller place. But seniors across the country are making the decision to do exactly that.
Whether it’s to move closer to kids or to a golf course, seniors are weighing their options.
And while there are a lot of transitions to make during this time, perhaps the biggest one for senior downsizing is deciding what stays and what goes.
Whether it’s to move closer to kids or to a golf course, seniors are weighing their options.
And while there are a lot of transitions to make during this time, perhaps the biggest one for senior downsizing is deciding what stays and what goes.
It’s a tedious process that takes thoughtful consideration and preparation. So how can you make the downsizing process a little easier?
Here are our seven tips.
Plan Early
Senior downsizing is a big job! Give yourself plenty of time to come up with a plan for moving. Deciding on a move date and working towards that date can help you get used to the idea of moving.
Set Goals. Set A Timeline
Now that you’ve planned for when you want to move, build your downsizing plan around it.
Set goals and a timeline for downsizing each room in your home. If you’re moving out of state, that’s another factor that needs to figure in your overall plan.
Are you planning on gifting any of your possessions? Figure that into your plan as well.
Start Small
The whole idea of downsizing can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s wise to start with practical areas like the kitchen and bathroom first. These rooms have more practical objects that make it easier to decide what to keep and what to toss.
Save heirlooms, photos, etc. for later. These will take more time to sort through.
Keep What You Use and What You Like
What makes a house a home are the objects that give you pleasure or that have sentimental value. Wall art is particularly important because it reflects your lifestyle and personality.
On the other hand, items that are in bad shape can be tossed. For example, chipped mugs. Take with you what’s most important to you.
Prioritize Big Areas First
Even though you want to start small, you’ll also want to prioritize tough spaces like the garage and the attic. Try to tackle one of these areas early on to get it out of the way. If there are a lot of keepsakes or heavy items, get help to sort through items.
It’s helpful to have a second opinion on what to keep and what to give away.
Know the Layout of Your New Place
Knowing the size and the layout of your new space will help you in deciding what you can keep and what to give away.
Don’t Over Save for Future Generations
Often, seniors who are downsizing want to save their possessions for grandkids. Think big ticket items like a dining room or living room suite. But it’s hard to know what a ten-year-old will want or like 10-15 years from now.
Instead of placing these items in storage, use the money that would go toward storage and put it in a savings account. When your granddaughter or grandson turns 21, give them the money to buy their own furniture.
Conclusion
When it comes to senior downsizing, the most important tip is to take the time you need to declutter. Thoughtfully go through your belongings and focus on what you’ll be gaining in your new life, not what you’re losing.
Lilly Title and Settlement is a woman-owned title insurance and closing company. When you’re ready to close on your new home, we’re here to make that transition as easy as possible! Learn more about us here.
Here are our seven tips.
Plan Early
Senior downsizing is a big job! Give yourself plenty of time to come up with a plan for moving. Deciding on a move date and working towards that date can help you get used to the idea of moving.
Set Goals. Set A Timeline
Now that you’ve planned for when you want to move, build your downsizing plan around it.
Set goals and a timeline for downsizing each room in your home. If you’re moving out of state, that’s another factor that needs to figure in your overall plan.
Are you planning on gifting any of your possessions? Figure that into your plan as well.
Start Small
The whole idea of downsizing can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s wise to start with practical areas like the kitchen and bathroom first. These rooms have more practical objects that make it easier to decide what to keep and what to toss.
Save heirlooms, photos, etc. for later. These will take more time to sort through.
Keep What You Use and What You Like
What makes a house a home are the objects that give you pleasure or that have sentimental value. Wall art is particularly important because it reflects your lifestyle and personality.
On the other hand, items that are in bad shape can be tossed. For example, chipped mugs. Take with you what’s most important to you.
Prioritize Big Areas First
Even though you want to start small, you’ll also want to prioritize tough spaces like the garage and the attic. Try to tackle one of these areas early on to get it out of the way. If there are a lot of keepsakes or heavy items, get help to sort through items.
It’s helpful to have a second opinion on what to keep and what to give away.
Know the Layout of Your New Place
Knowing the size and the layout of your new space will help you in deciding what you can keep and what to give away.
Don’t Over Save for Future Generations
Often, seniors who are downsizing want to save their possessions for grandkids. Think big ticket items like a dining room or living room suite. But it’s hard to know what a ten-year-old will want or like 10-15 years from now.
Instead of placing these items in storage, use the money that would go toward storage and put it in a savings account. When your granddaughter or grandson turns 21, give them the money to buy their own furniture.
Conclusion
When it comes to senior downsizing, the most important tip is to take the time you need to declutter. Thoughtfully go through your belongings and focus on what you’ll be gaining in your new life, not what you’re losing.
Lilly Title and Settlement is a woman-owned title insurance and closing company. When you’re ready to close on your new home, we’re here to make that transition as easy as possible! Learn more about us here.
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