It’s time to move into the next exciting phase of life… retirement! You’ve set the wheels in motion to embrace your new carefree lifestyle, but first there’s just one question – how to downsize your home? While downsizing can seem stressful, it doesn’t have to be. Here are 5 easy steps to help you transition from a large home into your right size home.

1. ALLOW YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME

Unfortunately downsizing isn’t a ‘get it done on the weekend’ thing. It takes time and planning. You need to allow space to not only pack and clear out, but to also reminisce, reflect and process. 

So , how to downsize your home simply and effectively?

First, we recommend you begin decluttering –but just do one room at a time. Start with your bathroom, which generally has the least emotional ties. 

Second, create a system to keep you organized and keep the overwhelm at bay. Create four categories: Keep, Sell, Donate, Trash.

Third, stick with it. It’s a long process, but you won’t believe how good your new, clutter-free retirement lifestyle will feel!

2. THE KEEP, SELL, DONATE, TRASH PILES

Keep

You should keep the things you use, or the items that make you happy in your everyday life. If you’re uncertain, ask yourself, “Have I used or appreciated this in the last year?”. If yes, it’s a keeper, If no, pop it into one of the other piles.

Sell

One person’s trash in another’s treasure. For items you no longer need or love, why not sell them online or have a garage sale? Who knows what you’ll get for that pristine china set you never use?

This will give you some extra cash in your pocket and make someone else very happy!

Donate

For items that are in good condition, but perhaps not easily sellable, put them in a pile to donate to charity. This could include clothing, books, old CDs, shoes, bags, games and linen. Someone will really appreciate these.

Throw Away

Anything that is worn, broken and has ‘had its day’ –put in the trash pile and take it to the tip. Easy. 

3. DIGITISE IT

A great way to declutter and still keep all your beautiful memories is to digitise items such as photos, home videos, school artwork and memorabilia. 

You can also digitise a lot of your paperwork (that’s sitting there forgotten in a filing cabinet).

4. WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE LIFESTYLE NEEDS?

When downsizing, keep in mind what your new lifestyle will look like in this next exciting chapter. 

Will you still need the spare bed for guests? Can you get rid of the sporting equipment that’s no longer used? Is the second fridge necessary? This is a good time to adopt the ‘less is more’ philosophy.

5. HOW WILL YOUR ITEMS FIT IN YOUR NEW HOME?

Think about the space you’re moving into and measure up your current furniture to make sure it will fit in your new home nicely. 

Once you’ve measured up your items, draw them onto your new floor plan –this will give you the best idea of how they’ll work in each room.

Taking a minimalist approach will help you create space, calm and tranquil happiness in your new home.

Need more tips on how to downsize with ease? Get in touch with the Living Gems team on 13 GEMS. We’re very happy to help!