Rightsizing Process

Downsizing or “rightsizing” seniors is sometimes necessary due to an aging population, cost of living imbalance or just a wish to simplify.  As a senior this process can be a bit daunting with all the work that is involved.  The emotional challenge of this process is also overwhelming.  Thinking through this process when it’s not yet necessary makes it all much easier when it IS necessary.  Then you won’t be reacting to your situation versus being proactive.

 

However, here are some steps that can be done to help you.

 

MAKE A PLAN

Get use to the idea that you may need to make a move.  Many people are able to “age in place” but if that isn’t an option for you then adjust your thinking so when you need to make the change, you can.

 

As you “rightsize” you may need to determine what belongings you keep versus what must go.  Creating a list of your items and then prioritizing them makes the process easier.  Start the removal of items that you no longer want to keep.  Give them to relatives, sell them or donate them to those who aren’t as fortunate.

 

As part of a plan, you must think about the moving process.  Once you decide where you are relocating, you must remember crucial information during the move.  Some items to consider as you start packing:

 

1)  What is the floor plan of your new home?  Will your selected belongs fit within the space?

2)  When moving, are there stairs or elevators?  What size are the elevators and doors to get certain pieces of furniture inside your new home.

3)  Are there specific community policies that you need to know about?

4)  Who will be helping you with the move?  It’s always good to have a family member or close friend that can help you direct all the moving pieces.

5)  When can you move into your new home?

6)  Where is the new place located and what is the best way to get there from your old home?

 

Answering these questions and adding them into your PLAN will make the move easier and less stressful.  Eliminating last-minute decisions brings more joy for the day.

 

DETERMINE YOUR NEEDS

As you review your belongings, ask yourself what you will need in your new home.  What are ESSENTIALS?  This will help you prioritize those item that you keep.  And, don’t forget the garage!  You may not even have a garage in your new home nor need many of the items stored there.  Another big room to think through is the kitchen.  If you are downsizing your home, many of these kitchen items may not even be needed anymore or you may not need the quantity of that item.

 

So, remember you can

 

·      SELL OR CONSIGNMENT

·      DONATE

·      THROW AWAY

·      REPURPOSE THE ITEM to use it in a different way

 

WHAT IS HOME?

Decide how you want your new home to feel like?  Do you want to have a minimalist space, or a homey space ready for grandkids visit?  You want your new home to FEEL LIKE HOME.  So what does that look like?  Understand that before you make the move.  This will also help you determine items that you keep.

 

KEEP THE IMPORTANT STUFF

Going through this process is stressful but take it just one step at a time.

 

-  List out the 5-6 items that you VALUE THE MOST.  They don’t need to be expensive items but should be items that you hold dear and are important to you.

-  Are there sentimental or family heirlooms that you want?  Put those aside or gift them to a family member or friends as you go through the decluttering process.

 

START AN INVENTORY OF YOUR ITEMS

Making a list of all your items allows you to ensure that nothing goes missing or misplaced during the moving process.

 

Areas to review:

·      Decorations

·      Tangible assets

·      Clothing

·      Other

 

DOWNSIZE A LITTLE BIT AT A TIME

Downsizing is a process.  Take it one step at a time.  Sometimes it takes you head a bit longer to get there.  Don’t over commit and take your time.  This process can be physically and emotionally draining so find the right balance by remaining patient!

 

GET SOME HELP!  IT’S AVAILABLE!

There are professionals who help with this process.  It’s not a family member but they can consult with you and your family and coach them through the process.

 

These coaches can help you:

 

·      Understand your Needs

·      Make suggestions for downsizing

·      Guide you and your family with living options based on your needs and wants

·      Provide tips for a smooth transition to your new home

 

You may

·      Feel a sense of community loss

·      Feel overwhelmed, and

·      Fear the unknown

 

But, don’t worry.  I can help you find the resources you need all along the way. As your real estate agent, I can connect you with a Coach that can guide you through this process.  I can help you sell your home and determine your next home.  I can also provide you trusted vendors like moving companies, etc. that can help along the way as needed.