Tips for Downsizing to a New Home

Posted by Dave Kotler on Wednesday, April 13th, 2022 at 9:03am.

Downsizing Doesn't Have to Be a Hassle; Look Forward to a New RoutineLife sometimes gets in the way; homeowners find that they must downsize for many reasons. It's not always easy. Whether the need results from having a smaller household, a job transfer, financial concerns, pending retirement, change in family status, or just the desire for simplicity, planning a move to a smaller home can be approached logically and without undue stress.

The first concern for people who plan to sell their home to downsize should be to decide what belongings will make the cut and what must be sold or disposed of in another way. If there is a need to move quickly, similar steps apply even within a compressed timeline. Take advantage of friends, family, and professionals to ease the planning and try to put aside sentimentality. Look upon the move as a new adventure, and make realistic decisions.

Taking Stock

It is always challenging to part with personal belongings, especially when they span a lifetime of memories. A valuable first step is to ascertain the worth of your things. Employ a qualified appraiser to place a value on antiques, artwork, books, and memorabilia. If there are items to be earmarked for other family members now or in the future, discuss your wishes and document those decisions, take pictures, put it all in writing, and entrust the documentation to a trusted person or adviser.

Then cull through the remaining bits and pieces from kitchenware to clothing and memorabilia. Amass what will be kept, and put those items to be sold or given away in a separate area. Keep lists and detailed records. Consider an estate liquidation service if the task seems overwhelming. Also, consider gifting local organizations, community centers, homeless shelters, or group homes with furniture and household goods of moderate value.

The Logistics

In a perfect world, deciding which possessions will not make the move to smaller quarters would be done before the sale of an existing home. Even if that is not the case, resist the temptation to "move first and sort later." There are two common results: either a smaller home is immediately cramped and uncomfortable, or a storage unit is filled with boxes that will take far too long to be unpacked. The cost is high in terms of angst and dollars.

Set a realistic timeline. Decluttering is an advantage when it comes time to list a home for sale. A sparsely furnished, minimally accessorized home often sells faster and for a higher price than one filled with furniture and personal memorabilia. Fewer possessions also mean less packing and an easier move.

Common Downsizing Mistakes

Those wanting to downsize may become overeager and start getting rid of just about everything they own, which is one of the mistakes many downsizers make early in the process. Other downsizing mistakes may include: 

  • Downsizing too early: It is unnecessary to start getting rid of things until it is time to move into a smaller home. 
  • Not having a master plan: Make a master plan for downsizing that includes the purpose, timeline, and resources to help with the process. 
  • Waiting too long: Putting off downsizing longer than needed can lead to panic when getting rid of personal belongings. 
  • Throwing it all away: Downsizing suggests getting rid of everything a person owns when, in reality, it is essential to stop and think if an item will fit into the new lifestyle. 
  • Downsizing the entire home at one time: Break the house up into smaller tasks and work on one room or section of a room at a time. 

Settling In

Plan for existing furniture and accessories in advance. It's possible to plan new and exciting uses for favourite pieces in new surroundings. A smaller space doesn't necessarily mean that a large sofa, a favourite chair, or a treasured collection of books won't work. Recycle and repurpose furniture whenever possible. A unique dining room hutch might find new life in a combo guest room/home office. A simple dining table could double as a desk or library table and offer informal eating space in an open plan living room.

Think beyond the boundaries of traditional room labels and define your spaces in a way that makes sense for a revamped lifestyle. Throughout the downsizing process, keep reminders of family and children to add spice, decorate for easy upkeep, and keep memories alive. Look forward to life in a new home that is full of possibilities!

Dave Kotler

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