I recently held a downsizing seminar with a colleague of mine to educate and inform people and it really didn’t take me long to realize that it is a very emotional and oftentimes challenging move. This home is likely the one you have been in for many years, raised your family in, made years of memories and have it perfectly to your liking. But maybe it’s not perfect to your ‘needs’ anymore.
I believe the word “downsizing” is inaccurate and a challenging word to overcome hearing or saying. I believe that “simplifying” is a truer way of putting it. Whether your reasoning be for a more convenient layout, more financial freedom or more for accessibility to hobbies or goals. Each of these reasons are met with a desire for a more simplified life. We are clearing out what no longer serves us to make room for what does.
Overcoming the emotional hurdle can be the most challenging. I urge you to acknowledge these emotions and meet them with a positive outlook… “I don’t have to keep things, to keep memories” Acceptance of how what serves you can change as you move through life can pose difficult but ultimately very rewarding when we can allow emotions to be felt and make the choices that provide us with the resources that fulfill what we now need.
The million dollar question is; When is it the right time to downsize/simplify? There really is no one size fits all answer to this but I do have a couple of considerations to help you draw a conclusion. Ask yourself, am I able to physically keep up with the maintenance my home requires, am I able to live the lifestyle I want in my current home, does my home fit into my financial goals, would I be able to better achieve my goals in a different home? These considerations will help you to identify if making a move might be a right decision.
If you are considering or wanting to make a move, start small, simple and early. Take things one step and one room at a time – decluttering, cleaning, and packing. Starting early will help minimize stress and make the transition comfortable. Connecting with a trusted Real Estate partner early on to inquire about their partners can be helpful. Many agents will have a referral network to help you with things like decluttering, moving out unwanted furniture, and any possible repairs you are wanting/needing to make.
Simplifying your lifestyle doesn’t need to be a scary or daunting task. By making way for the new and allowing yourself to live the life you want is something you deserve. Assess what matters to you and what will best serve your needs. Maybe where you are right now is serving you or maybe it isn’t. There is no wrong answer as long as it is what is best for you!
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