At some point, many of us downsize our homes. Sometimes couples do this to save money, and others do so once they become empty nesters. There’s a long list of reasons for making this change, and completing a few tasks before downsizing your home will ensure the process goes smoothly. Read on to find out what you need to add to your to-do list as you pack up your things.
Know the Sizes of Your Furniture Pieces
Jot down the dimensions of your current furniture as you shop for a new home so you know what will fit into the new space. Compare these numbers to the room sizes of each house you look at. Doing this early on makes packing easier and may require setting aside time to go furniture shopping if your current pieces will not fit your new space.
Pro Tip
Consider modular or multi-functional pieces if you need or want to purchase new furniture. Some couches and ottomans have cushions that lift to reveal areas for storage. This is the perfect place to tuck away extra blankets or pillows.
Go Through Your Belongings
You won’t be able to take everything in your current house with you since you’ll have less space. Go through all your belongings room by room and create three piles:
- Things to keep—items you regularly use or those with sentimental value.
- Things to throw away—items that are too worn to use.
- Things to donate—items that are still in good shape but no longer serve you.
By doing this, you can better understand all the things you’ve accumulated while living in your current home. Also, going room by room allows you to keep the process organized; doing every room at once can feel overwhelming. Once you finish, search for a charity that helps communities and non-profit organizations—just be sure you’re familiar with their list of acceptable items for donation.
Start Early
Doing this task before you downsize your home will prevent rushing the process. Moving too quickly can increase your stress levels, and you may keep things you could’ve donated. Once you start shopping for a new house, walk through your current home and make a mental note of things you could get rid of. Give yourself plenty of time to sort through your home before purchasing a new one.
Ask for Help
Never be afraid of asking for help; going through a large house is an understandably daunting task. It can be emotional to sort through everything, especially if you raised a family in the home you are planning to vacate. But with help from friends and family, you’ll begin forming new memories. And remember, your new home is ready and waiting to provide countless memories of all the new adventures you’ll take through life.
