Are you thinking about downsizing? Maybe you’re considering moving to a smaller, cosier home or a flat? Well, let me tell you, downsizing comes with a whole bunch of benefits.
Just imagine, less upkeep, lower energy bills, and maintenance, and a lower initial investment. Sounds pretty good, right?
Now, I know what you might be thinking. Why should you downsize? Well, there are plenty of reasons. Maybe you’ve been living in a big house for the past decade, hosting gatherings and accommodating a large family. But now, you’re finding that you simply don’t need all that space anymore. Too many bedrooms and not enough time to clean them all. Or perhaps you’re moving to a bustling city where properties are pricier, and you’re ready to start a fresh chapter.
No matter the reason, downsizing can be an exciting adventure. It’s an opportunity for something new, a fresh space.
So, I’m here to offer you a step-by-step guide on how to downsize successfully. Let’s get started, shall we?
When is the best time to downsize?
First things first, when is the best time to downsize?
It’s a common question, and you might have pondered it yourself. But here’s the thing, if you’ve already been contemplating it, chances are the time is near. So, start packing those things and get ready to find your new, smaller haven.
Popular times for downsizing often include retirement when the maintenance of a larger property becomes a burden.
It’s also common when you find yourself with more space than you know what to do with, like when your kids have grown up and moved out, leaving empty rooms behind. That’s when downsizing starts to make a lot of sense.
Downsizing your home means downsizing your possessions
Now, let’s talk about the nitty-gritty of downsizing. Decluttering.
Ah, what a therapeutic experience it can be! When you’re downsizing, it’s only natural to want to reduce the number of possessions you have. It’s time to open those cupboards and sort through your belongings. Start with the bigger items, like selling the larger furniture pieces from your spare rooms. Then gradually work your way to the smaller things. This approach allows you to displace more stuff easily and helps you realise how much you truly need and what’s just extra.
The best part? You can still use your everyday items while you’re in the process. No need to pack them away just yet!
Create a downsizing system
Now, to make downsizing even easier, I recommend implementing a system. Here’s one suggestion: the one-year rule.
If you haven’t used an item in a year, chances are you no longer need it. Simple, right? And for the belongings you no longer need, you’ve got a few options. You can give them away, auction them, donate to charity, or if they’re no longer useful, bid them farewell and send them off to the trash bin.
Hey, you never know, your family, friends, or relatives might be interested in some of your things, so it’s worth asking. But if not, don’t worry, there are plenty of other avenues to explore.
Consider your new lifestyle when downsizing
When downsizing, it’s crucial to consider your new lifestyle. Think about the space you’ll have in your new home and what you truly need. For instance, if you’re moving from a four-bedroom house to an apartment, you might not need that lawnmower or all those gardening tools anymore. Be sensible and keep only what you need. Trust me, it makes the downsizing process a whole lot smoother.
Begin downsizing before you move home, not after
Now, here’s a little piece of advice: start downsizing before you move, not after. We all know how tough it can be to let go of possessions, but trust me, it’s better to tackle it beforehand. Not only will you save on removal costs and avoid unnecessary back-and-forth trips, but you’ll also have a better understanding of what you truly need in your new space. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the first few nights in your new home without the stress of being surrounded by piles of boxes. It’s a win-win situation!
Is this your last move?
One important thing to consider is whether this will be your last move. If it is, it’s time to plan ahead. Determine what you genuinely need and what you can let go of to free up even more space. Of course, I’m not suggesting you throw away cherished memorabilia and family photographs, but there are likely things you no longer need that can be bid farewell.
Avoid renting a storage unit
Now, let’s talk about storage units. Renting one may seem like a good idea initially, but trust me, those costs can add up quickly. The problem with storage units is that they often encourage us to keep possessions and furniture we don’t actually need. It’s a vicious cycle. You place items in storage, only to realize months later that you don’t need them anymore. Or worse, you hold on to them for far too long, paying those storage unit fees for things that gather dust. So, my suggestion is to downsize as much as possible before you move and avoid the temptation of renting a storage unit altogether.
Alright, we’re almost there.
Make downsizing a stress-free process
Downsizing your home is a big step, but it can also be liberating and enjoyable. It’s a chance to change your scenery and embrace a new lifestyle. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to begin, or if you’re struggling to find a new home that suits your downsizing needs, don’t worry.
We’re here to help! Just give us a call at 01702 411146 or shoot us an email at team@weaversestates.co.uk. We’ll be more than happy to assist you in finding your next perfect home.
Remember, downsizing is an exciting opportunity for a fresh start. Embrace it, and you’ll be amazed at how much joy and freedom you can find in a smaller, cosier space.
Good luck on your downsizing journey!
PS. Don’t forget to read our tips on selling a unique/high value home here.
