There’s no “one way” to downsize, the same way there’s no “one way” to get married, plan a big trip, or tackle any other complex project. But in our experience, following this general order helps our clients stay on track, minimize drama and complete an efficient move. Regardless of the order of the steps, most people find that there is more to consider than they may have thought initially, and many of them realize they need more help than they thought they would.
Read this general plan for inspiration, and refer to our list of trusted specialists if you find that you could use a hand.
Our Recomended Downsizing Approach
Prepare and Plan
- Decide where you’re moving!
- Set a downsizing budget.
- Get your legal ducks in a row.
- Locate and preserve your vital documents.
- Obtain a to-scale drawing of your next place.
- Hire a professional organizer, move manager or downsizing concierge to guide and oversee your project.
Preserve Your
Personal History
- Determine available space for collections, prized possessions and memorabilia in your new space.
- Organize and digitize photos and videos.
- Preserve artifacts and mementos that tell your personal story.
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Designate items to give to friends and family members.
Select Furnishings and Accessories
- Complete a detailed space plan and determine furniture placement for your next place.
- Choose accessories, art and decorative items to take with you.
- Choose your most-used kitchen equipment.
- Select glassware, dishes, entertaining and display pieces to take with you.
- Purchase additional furnishings if needed
Select Belongings
- Make a first pass at your clothing, shoes, and accessories.
- Visit small storage spaces, looking for essential items
- Select supplies for hobbies, interests and recreation.
- Select luggage and other travel gear.
- Identify your favorite holiday decorations.
- Choose necessary tools and housewares.
3-4 Months Before You Move:
- Select an experienced Realtor
- Determine necessary repairs or upgrades to your property.
- Determine strategy for marketing and selling your property.
Your choice of Realtor matters! Allow us to recommend qualified real estate Pros who understand the downsizing process. Learn More.
Finalize Decisions
- Finalize your wardrobe, keeping only what fits and flatters.
- Determine all personal care items you need to take with you.
- Designate items for donation, auction, and private sale.
- Arrange for short-term storage if necessary for your home sale or clear-out plans.
- Schedule a moving estimate, including quotes for packing and unpacking.
- Finalize projects needing attention.
Finalize your moving day plan and arrangements.
Pack, Move, Unpack
- Consolidate all critical belongings (documents, medicine, jewelry, precious items) together before move day.
- Complete packing, moving, unpacking with your move team and move manager.
- Complete settle-in services including picture hanging, television setup, etc.
After the Move:
- Finalize clear-out service for everything that didn’t make the trip.
- Schedule deep-cleaning of your entire home.
- Proceed with your plans to sell your property.
- Completely empty your home of unneeded belongings.
