5 Things To Consider When Downsizing Your Home

There are many reasons why you may want or need to move home in later life. If you or a relative are considering downsizing, here are five tips to think about first.

1. Be Clear On Why

It is important to be clear you want to downsize your home. You may find your current home too big to maintain, or perhaps you want to move closer to family or friends. Either way, keep thinking about these factors before going ahead.

2. Assess Your Belongings

Moving into a smaller home means there will be less space for all the things you have accumulated over the years. Start to make an inventory of all the big and small items you want to keep in order determine what space you will need. In addition, this will help you decide what you will need to dispose of; it’s never too early to de-clutter. Remember to be ruthless or you will end up repeating this process after you move.

3. Be Specific About Your Needs

What is most important to you? Do you want to be closer to family and friends or is there another pull? You should consider all aspects of a potential move, including nearby recreational facilities, how active or quiet the neighbourhood is and what relevant travel options are available to you.

4. Speak To Family and Friends

Talk to family and friends about how the moving process may impact them. Would they be willing to help you move or dispose of belongings? In addition, think about how you will maintain links to family and friends when deciding where to move.

5. Think Positively

The emotional upheaval of leaving a family home full of memories often means people deliberate for a long time before coming to the decision of downsizing. Although it can be emotional, it is important to think of this of downsizing as a positive step, bringing with it new opportunities to be closer to family and friends.