A Guide to Downsizing and Simplifying Your Golden Years
By Andrea Needham, eldersday.org
Your home has served you and your family well for many years. Now that your nest is empty and your lifestyle goals have changed, that big house may have become an unnecessary hassle to maintain, both physically and financially. Saying goodbye to stuff and moving into a smaller space can reduce your monthly expenses and eliminate many of those draining household chores. If you’re ready to simplify your golden years, check out the following list of helpful decluttering and downsizing resources.
Setting Your Budget
Before you start to search for a smaller home, it’s important to get an idea of what you have to work with as far as budget.
The Surprising Costs of Downsizing Your Home
Finding the Perfect Home
The next step is to find the ideal area with proximity to amenities you need and a home that can serve you now and into the future.
5 Important Factors for Choosing a Retirement Location
Renovations and Home Modifications for Aging-in-Place
Saying Goodbye to Stuff
Downsizing your belongings can be a challenging process, but it’s an important step if you plan to move into something smaller.
7 Decluttering Tips: How to Release Your Attachment to Your Stuff
Stop Making These Decluttering Mistakes
Preparing for Your Move
Once you’ve found your new home, it’s time to pack up everything and prepare for the big day!
The Ultimate Checklist: Change of Address
Making Yourself at Home After a Move
From developing a downsizing budget to notifying various organizations about your change of address, there are a lot of steps in the downsizing process. Don’t let this list overwhelm you! Downsizing is best approached one day at a time. Start searching for homes, decluttering your possessions, and preparing for your move long before your target moving date. After the dust has finally settled, you’ll be glad you made the decision to simplify your life.
If you have questions or need help with your estate planning needs, we would be happy to assist. Please contact us or request a consultation to learn more.