There comes a time when having a large space is just too much. The time and energy spent to manage a large space may no longer be benefiting your lifestyle. This is where the thought of downsizing comes from. In fact, since 2016, square footage has been on a steady decrease for new home builders and buyers.
The reasons for wanting a smaller space can vary. Older home buyers may seek a smaller space for less maintenance, easier accessibility, and convenience. Younger home buyers are looking for convenient locations within walking distance of shopping and restaurants. Prime locations can often be found in historic areas, where older homes were built smaller and with more character. A smaller space is also attractive to homeowners who are cautious about their footprint on the environment.
No matter the reason, moving and downsizing can be overwhelming. Especially when you are evaluating everything you own.
Check out our top ten tips to help ease the stressors of downsizing:
- Plan, Plan, Plan
Downsizing, or moving in general, is difficult to accomplish spontaneously. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare for the process. Depending on your next move, your home may require electrical, plumbing, or structural updates. Feeling rushed during this process will only make you more stressed. Start early to ensure things go as smoothly as possible.
- Consider Your Lifestyle Needs
Now, envision what you want your life to be like. Yard space, garage, basement, convenient location, and counter space are all things to consider. The list could go on and on. Maybe you want to completely change the look of your new home. Carefully plan out how small you want your new space to be. It’s a big leap to drastically change the size of your home.
- Consider All Your Options
Rent or buy. There are pros and cons to both. If you’re looking to reduce the maintenance factor, renting might be for you. You can have everything taken care of through property management. Renting can be a hard transition when you’ve owned for so many years. Make sure you work with partners that set you up for success during the buying process.
- Evaluate Items to Reduce Clutter
Eliminate unnecessary items before packing. Consider making your choices: ‘Yes”, “No”, and “Donate” to help with decision making. Maybe it’s an article of clothing you haven’t worn in years or excessive paperwork laying around on countertops. Consider whether or not things can be recycled before just throwing them away. Most things can be recycled or donated.
- Reduce Duplicates & Bulk Items
Let’s face it; buying products in bulk can take up a lot of space and can cause clutter. It’s nice to have extra products on hand, but is it realistic? How many dishes do you use? How many paper products do you go through in a month? Think about where those items will go before you purchase them to help make the most of your space.
- Digitize Your Life
It’s becoming more and more common to go digital with old videos, important documents, and music. It saves space and creates an easy way to share with friends and family. Today, there are countless ways you can simplify your life by going digital. This will give you a sense of comfort when you’re in your new space trying to find an important document or fun family memory because it will all be in one spot.
- Measure Your Items
This tip will be extremely helpful when you’re ready to move into your new space, planning the layout of your moving vehicle, and preparing items for self-storage. Think about the bulky furniture that fits perfectly in your current space. How will it look in a much smaller space? Self-storage can save the rarely used lawncare or seasonal care equipment from taking up space and being an eyesore.
- Find A Home For Excess Items
We talked about self-storage as a solution for seasonal items in our previous tip. But it is also a solution to consider for motorcycles, boating equipment and accessories, bicycles, and toys. It’s common to have 24/7 secure access to self-storage units. A month to month option will help if items are only stored away for a small percentage of the year.
- Consult With A Professional
To take things a step further, reach out to an organization professional or shop around for organization containers. Imagine walking into your new space with everything neatly organized in its proper place. A professional will help you get and stay organized. They can also help strategize ways to maximize your downsized living space.
- Closure With Your Old Space
This quite possibly is the hardest part of downsizing. Your home holds special memories and sentimental moments. After all, looking through old photos and mementos can take an emotional toll on you. Allow yourself to be present at the moment. The next chapter is exciting, but leaving the current one is bittersweet. Take your time so you remember having the proper closure when you look back on your experience.
Remember, this is an exciting time in your life. Focus on the positives and enjoy the process.
In need of a storage solution for when you’re downsizing? Find the Fox Den location closest to you.