Downsize your home with these handy tips

-Written by Erik Sargent

Completing a downsizing move isn’t like a standard home move, as you’re not only moving to a smaller space, but also working hard to donate or sell unwanted items in the process.

For those making a transition where a smaller living situation and less belongings makes sense, learning the best ways to effectively downsize can get you well on your way to the next chapter of your life. Whether you’re retired and looking for more simplicity in life or you’re looking to save a little bit of money, downsizing can be a great option.

It’s best to begin a downsizing move by starting small well in advance, and handling tasks individually, that way you ensure every detail is covered and nothing gets overlooked.

An expert list of downsizing tips is a good place to start, and we’re here to help!

Planning

Try to establish a plan on how you’re going to begin the downsizing process. When determining what will get packed and shipped to the next house and what will get thrown away, go room-by-room to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Effective planning also includes preparing a time frame for your move, hiring professional movers, packing, and much more. Call your local TWO MEN AND A TRUCK franchise for help, here!

Don’t organize everything all at once

Downsizing and packing can’t be done in just a few hours – it takes time and patience to get the job done right. As previously mentioned, have a plan for each room and tackle them one by one.

Does this fit with your next step?

This is one of the toughest questions when evaluating what items will be moved, but one of the most crucial. If an item doesn’t make logistical sense and won’t be of much use at your next home, it’s best to part with it now.

Taking it along to the next location will only take up space and effort.

Is it broken and can it be fixed?

Some items you own may be on the fence between “useful” and “garbage”, and this is another tough decision that needs to be made when downsizing.

If something can be fixed or repaired before your move, keep it! If there’s no chance of either of those ever happening, send it to the curb.

How often is it being used?

Many of your belongings may seem important at first glance, but in reality, might not be of any use. As you’re going around organizing and determining what gets packed, asked yourself how much you’ve been using each item.

If the answer is “not often”, toss it! This will save you the hassle of dealing with it at a later time, and will also making the moving process much easier. Another good rule of thumb: if you haven’t used the item in a year, don’t take it with you,

Stay flexible!

With any type of move, whether downsizing or not, packing and moving can get complicated. Plans can change, opinions can differ, and last-second decisions are usually required. Stay flexible during this process!

Staying flexible will help you keep a level head during your home move, and will also ease the stress of moving and while keeping everything going at a relaxing pace.

If you’re looking to complete an upcoming downsizing move, or know somebody who is, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK is ready to help! Use our franchise locator to find the location nearest you, and let us make your next home move a breeze!

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is the first and largest franchised moving company in the United States. Let us help move you forward! For more helpful tips and information on moving services subscribe to our blog and like us on Facebook.