Downsizing: Tips & Tricks For Transitioning Into A Smaller Home

There are plenty of reasons for downsizing into a smaller home. Some couples make a conscious decision to trade in their larger homes once the kids grow up and leave the nest. Others may have been hit with unexpected financial challenges and need to downsize into a more affordable space. Maybe it's divorce, or a death of a loved one.  Whatever the case, it's safe to say that transitioning into a smaller home does come with its benefits:  there's less rooms to clean, lower utility costs and perhaps even a smaller garden to tend to!

Downsizing: Tips & Tricks For Transitioning Into A Smaller Home

Decluttering

When you think about the size of your current home, your first thought when considering downsizing into a smaller home is probably: where the heck am I going to put all this stuff? The thing is, there's a very good chance that all that stuff is just that:  stuff (or as I like to call it, "crap and junk"). The rule of thumb for declutter is always this:  if you haven't used it or worn in in the past year, then you probably never will.  Time to toss, donate or sell.  

Sell It

Once you’ve decided what you'll be keeping and what you'll be getting rid of, you can have a tag sale and begin to list things for sale on eBay, Poshmark or Facebook Marketplace. This is a great way to earn a little extra dough for your move, too.  If you have items that aren't worth selling, try listing them on sites like Freecycle.  Freecycle is a grassroots (and entirely nonprofit) movement of folks who are giving (and getting) stuff for free in their own towns and neighborhoods. It's all about reuse and keeping good stuff out of landfills.  Personally, I picked up two air conditioners and a microwave, all in great shape, for free through Freecycle.

Avoid Duplication

If you have decent household items that don't need replacing, you can avoid repurchasing those items for your new home. If you are moving in with someone, check to see whether or not they have same or similar items; no sense duplicating household goods or furniture when it's not necessary.  When moving house, keep a detailed list of items you'll  be taking with you or that you'll need to buy and / or eventually replace.  Organization is the key to every successful move.

Invest In Storage & Organization

Moving into a smaller home could mean that you're losing precious closet and storage space. Once you make the transition to your new home, you should consider clever storage options, such as ottomans for storing blankets and pillows.  A closet organization system with bins, baskets and shelves will help manage a smaller closet.  And underbed storage is a great option for keeping off-season clothing and bedding out of the way.

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Change Your Mindset

Lastly, when you’ve moved into your new home and you’ve pared down your belongings, you'll need to change your shopping habits. There’s no need for an abundance of throw pillows on the sofa or half a dozen jars of peanut butter in the pantry, for example.  When space is at a premium, the best mindset is a minimalist mindset.

This awesome infographic covers a few more quick tips for downsizing.  We totes agree with #10!

Infographic courtesy of after55.com

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