Tips for Downsizing Seniors
Jill Stoltzfoos • March 19, 2020
It's my goal to help make your downsizing process as simple as possible!
Congratulations! The decision to downsize to a more manageable home, move to a retirement home or to the home of a loved one is a major, life changing decision. It's my goal to help make your downsizing process as simple as possible, and your transition to a new home an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. If you'd like to learn more about my services for seniors, contact me today.
We can chat over coffee or tea and make a list of what needs to be done to make your move a success. My goal is to help you feel confident about your decision to move and to provide you with the resources needed to get your home organized and ready to sell.
Your Downsizing Checklist:
- Get Started
Begin by deciding what items you plan to take with you and what items you can sell, donate to charity, or give to family and friends. This can be a long process so if you know you're planning to downsize, start early - a year in advance is great, especially if you plan to give furniture and other items to family.
Helpful Tip: Label furniture and items that are "up for grabs" prior to your next family get together and while friends and family are in your home they can express interest in any items they might like. (And be sure to set up a time for pick-up!) - Get Organized
If your home is disorganized it can make moving difficult. Start getting organized one room at a time, making piles of similar items, filing paperwork, folding blankets and clothing etc. This will help you or your movers pack your items neatly and make unpacking a breeze. It's also the best way to prepare for the next step of the downsizing process. - Purge
By now you most likely have piles of items that need to be discarded or donated so make arrangements to do so. Arrange a pick-up time with the local Salvation Army or rent a dumpster for a day if necessary. Getting rid of "junk" before your move will make the process much smoother! And make moving day less stressful.
At this time it's also important to make decisions about your pets. Are they welcome at your new residence or will you need to find them a home too? Pets are like family so be sure they are included in your downsizing plans. - Hire Movers
When you are ready to move, make arrangements with family or hire movers to help make the process more efficient. Find out your new residence' move-in policies and be sure to contact your current utility companies to cancel service. - Sell Your Current Home
What's left when it comes to downsizing? Selling your home, of course! Give me a call and we can get started on your checklist right away. I'm happy to recommend organizers, movers, and be of assistance throughout your downsizing process. It's my goal to make your transition go smoothly and get you the most money for the sale of your long time home so that you can head into retirement confidently.
Real Life Real Estate with Jill
Whether you're buying, selling or downsizing, thanks for stopping by! I'm Jill and I've been a Realtor® for over a decade. It's my passion to help families find their forever home. I also enjoy helping seniors in the downsizing process. I believe that a home is more than a place to live. It is your dwelling place, a retreat, a place to relax and make memories! If you're ready to list your home or start the home search process, contact me today.
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