The decision to downsize is often emotional, requiring you not only to say goodbye to the family home that holds so many memories but let go of possessions that no longer have a place in your life.
Downsizing remains an important option for those approaching later years and looking for less stress. Once the kids have moved out, a big family home can feel empty, and be tiresome to maintain. So it’s natural to start thinking about changing your life priorities. This is “me time” for so many who have dedicated 20 or 30-plus years to raising a family.
And while downsizing might signal additional freedom, you should not underestimate the impact it might have on your life.
As experienced local agents, we recommend our clients seek financial or accounting advice before selling their home and buying a smaller property. You must check that you’ll gain the anticipated savings from scaling back.
You should also be clear on how you wish to live in the medium-term. Would you like to escape to the country, enjoy an apartment overlooking a beach or buy into a managed village with all the amenities and social benefits they promise?
Whatever you decide, a smaller home will mean fewer possessions. To help you through that process, we have pulled together a list of tips to get you started.
Be methodical
Don’t start your project by trying to do everything at once. Go one room at a time, or create categories, such as clothes and garden tools. The children should clear out their rooms.
Do you love it?
Only keep personal belongings that you love. Anything that you’re ambivalent about can go.
Sentimental value
Don’t throw out anything that might be of sentimental value to a family member. Allow them to take those items. This will help avoid rancour and conflict. But set deadlines for collection and pick up and don’t keep items you assume will be important to others. Let them make a claim by the agreed date, or they’re gone.
Single science
Unlike Noah, who counted in twos, you need to count in ones. That means one alarm clock, one frying pan, one lemon squeezer. You get the drift.
Gifts and giveaways
Create a pile of belongings that you might give to friends, family or colleagues – toys are a favourite, and make a second pile that can go to charity shops.
Tailor-made
Thin out your wardrobe, keeping a few key and favourite pieces that you can mix and match, plus fashion that’s versatile and timeless. Any item off-trend needs to go.
Photo-fit
If there are personal belongings that no longer have a place in your life but you wish to remember them, take photos of them as a keepsake.
Think small
Stop buying XL packs of toilet paper, shampoos and the like. They take up space that you’ll use for greater benefit in your new home..
Get digital
Those piles of important papers in dusty drawers and filing cabinets need to be cleared out. Don’t be afraid to digitise any documents you must keep.