Downsizing is a common move for many people across the world. The kids have grown up and flown the nest, and now you’re living in a house that feels too big for your needs. By downsizing, you can free up money from your property sale to spend on travelling and leisure, while moving into a home that feels like it’s more suited to your current needs.
The downside of downsizing is that it poses many logistical challenges. However, it doesn’t seem so difficult if you hire a storage company (such as Storage Post New Jersey) and a moving company. Now, let’s take a look at the top tips to help you downsize your home effectively and without stress.
How much space do you really need?
Your first step should always be to consider your true needs. It’s important to make sure you don’t downsize too far if it might mean you don’t have space for your current lifestyle, but equally, you’ll need to be strict about what you ‘need’ and what you ‘want’. The idea of a spare room for crafts or other hobbies is great, but if it’s only going to be used once in a blue moon, is it really necessary? Do factor these in, while looking for a replacement house, be it through an apartment locator or a realtor.
Cut the clutter
The next stage of downsizing is probably the hardest, so start this process early. It’s time to slowly go through everything you’ve amassed throughout your life, asking yourself whether you really need to keep it or not. Old CDs you haven’t played in years, videotapes, clothes that are as old as your adult children… whatever you’ve got stored away in the attic, it’s time to start making regular trips to the local charity shops. KonMari is a popular method for tidying and cutting through clutter, though it’s not for everyone.
Safe & secure storage
While selling or donating half of your possessions might work for some people, for many of us it means the loss of sentimental items and keepsakes. Another way to downsize without having to shed all of your stuff is by purchasing safe and secure storage within an easy reach of your home. Storage units across the UK, such as these London storage options, offer a secure and convenient way to keep valuable items safe without needing to make room in your home for them.
Gift items to family and friends
Another way to part with sentimental items without saying goodbye forever is to gift them to family and friends. Can’t bring yourself to say goodbye to the children’s old toys? Give them to your kids to pass on to future generations. This is a lovely way to keep your more emotionally valuable possessions close without having to keep them in your own home, and your family will no doubt be happy to keep something from their own memories at home, too.
