When you’re thinking about how to downsize a home, it’s probably due to the fact you no longer need a big space to live in but what’s holding you back is there is so much stuff. Everywhere you look, you’re overwhelmed by just how many things you’ve accumulated over the years and now it’s time to move on, downsize to simplicity, and save money. Downsizing isn’t an easy task but it can be done, with a few helpful tips and some can-do spirit. Sure, you’ll have to find a way to get rid of that old television set but you won’t have to worry about keeping a big house clean.
How to Downsize a Home
Downsizing a home is not only a logistical challenge but an emotional ride. You took the time to update your current home over the years. From the little changes to the really big home improvement remodeling, you've managed to pull-off quite a bit. It's a tribute to the work you've put into the property, from converting the garage into a wonderful workshop to redoing the bathrooms, it's been worthwhile.
Downsizing a home can lead to lots of stress and anxiety for anyone who loves their belongings but hates living in clutter. Seniors, empty nesters or people moving from a suburban home to a city apartment all face the challenge of creating a new living space with limited room for furniture, accessories, clothes and collectibles. But if you come up with a plan before you downsize, you can create a comfortable and stylish environment made for daily living. --HGTV.com
Whether you're retiring and empty nesting or just don't want to be bothered with the heavy upkeep of a large home, downsizing is a great solution. Of course, this change will come with its own set of challenges. The biggest (not surprisingly) will be dealing with all your possessions. From clothing to appliances to furniture, you'll have much to deal with over the course of your downsize move. Here are some helpful tips about how to downsize a home:
- Plan well in advance. Downsizing should not be rushed. If you are on a short timeline, try not to get caught-up in the now and keep your mind on the future. If possible, start planning three months in advance. This will give you time to determine what will go with you and what you'll part from. Remember, the more you take, the less room you'll have.
- Determine your new lifestyle needs. This is a bit tricky but it can be done if you think practically. You're going to have less room which means less living and storage space. While this seems all-too-obvious, professional stagers, organizers, and real estate professionals alike know the reality. That reality being people have strong tendencies to hold onto items (particularly expensive ones) that are just too large. Purge as much as possible and be willing to part with unused, usually unseen items.
- Embrace space-saving technology. One of the benefits of modern technology is there's less space needed to enjoy many forms of entertainment. This means you can stream television programs and movies, stream music, and more. Which makes all those DVDs, CDs, and the like unnecessary. What's more, you don't need all those cords and peripherals.
- Focus on function and multipurpose. Instead of trying to squeeze many pieces of furniture into a small space, switch it out for one big piece and one that is multifunctional. There are many choices available to combine furniture with storage.
When you're ready to start your downsizing journey and need to dispose of a lot of stuff, just phone 800-433-1094 or visit AAA Rousse Services. We have crews working nearby and are happy to lend a helping hand with your new start in life.