How to Downsize to a Smaller Home

Posted by Justin Havre on Tuesday, October 10th, 2017 at 11:42am.

How to Start DownsizingIt may seem like yesterday when you were looking for a home with more space to meet the demands of a growing family. Now you find that you would be happy living in a smaller home with much less “stuff.” The minimalist concept, tiny home movement and potential cost-savings may be part of the driving force causing homeowners to consider scaling down their home and possessions for a more stress-free lifestyle. How can homeowners get started on eliminating the unnecessary when selling their home and determining what they actually need to enjoy life on a smaller scale?

Learn how to get started on downsizing and what important considerations should be kept top-of-mind during the process.

How Quickly Should Homeowners Let Go?

According to Right at Home Canada, seniors and family caregivers may want to slowly let go of beloved possessions. Many individuals may have strong emotional attachment to specific items that should be considered when it comes to reducing belongings. It can be easier to focus on one room at a time then tackle it all at the same time. If it is not necessary to sell a home and move into a smaller home quickly, homeowners may want to take their time as they reduce the amount of their belongings.

What About the Community of a Future Residence?

People looking to downsize are looking at options such as condos and lofts in easily walkable communities. Homeowners want less stress in terms of maintenance but easy access to all of the stores, restaurants and activities they have always enjoyed. Therefore, it becomes important to determine what type of homes are of interest and what is available in the community to sustain one's lifestyle. Sometimes people are downsizing because they simply do not need the space, but there are other reasons people look to scale-down.

Downsizing Because of Lifestyle Changes or Financial Need?

It is not only retirees that are downsizing. Families with a single working parent, adults who are going through a divorce or who have experienced a change in financial expectations may also want to transition to a simpler lifestyle. Examining the reasons for downsizing and creating a budget will help determine the priorities that must be met in the properties available in the market.

Get More By Living Small?

Homeowners who have lived in larger house and transitioned to living in a condo may appreciate some of the amenities and services provided by the condominium association. Even though there are dues to be paid, the services provided can free up a homeowner's time. It makes sense to look over how the association is run and what is offered by the community itself. Why have a home gym when a well-equipped gym and pool are available on-site and provides an opportunity to socialize? Knowing what type of amenities may be offered in Aspen Woods or any other community can help homeowners as they think of what to sell, donate or throw out as they reduce the amount of things they own.

What Categories Are Needed?

It can be helpful for homeowners to create categories to sort current items. Sorting categories may include:

  • Items to keep
  • Items to toss
  • Things to give away or donate

It can be helpful to sell items in a “moving sale” if planning in advance. The additional income can help to offset future moving costs and provide motivation to eliminate other items. Advertising in a local paper or online may increase the number of sales of offered furniture, décor, memorabilia and more.

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