Downsizing can feel overwhelming at times.  You may ask yourself, “How am I going to get all my stuff into a smaller house?”  While downsizing is a big project, there are ways to make it an easy transition. Before you begin, make a list of goals to help you stay on track. Here are some simple tips for a smooth transition. Don’t forget…keep the emotions out of the process and stay focused on your goals.

1.) Try not to focus on the entire house at once. Break things down room by room. Take on one project at a time and don’t allow yourself to get overwhelmed. If the room itself seems to be too much to take on, just focus on one area at a time, like a closet. Accomplish something before moving on to another area. Small steps yield big rewards. Set realistic goals about the amount of time you need, and create a timeline that works for you.

2.) Evaluate what you have. Everyone has extra stuff. Ask yourself: Do I use this? Need it? Love it? Is it in good condition? If you haven’t used or thought about something in over a year, it’s probably safe to get rid of it. Sell valuable items that you no longer need. Craigslist is a great online tool that will help you cash in on things that you don’t need anymore. Or donate. There’s no shortage of organizations that take in the things you don’t use and distribute them to people in need. What a great feeling!

3.) Properly store irreplaceable items. Meaningful items such as old photos, yearbooks, wedding dresses, and christening gowns should be properly stored in sealed containers in order to protect them from the elements. After you move consider going one step further with old photos and convert them to a digital format to ensure that they will always be safe.

4.) Stay positive. Concentrate on what’s important you, and visualize what your home will look like when you have de-cluttered and re-imagined your space. After de-cluttering, most people wish they had done it sooner.

5.)  I specialize in working with downsizers and can guide you along the entire process from the beginning to end. In addition to helping you to manage the process, I will refer  contacts to you that are familiar with the process, such as stagers, de-clutterers, and junk removers, as well as a storage plan for the things you can’t bear to part with or want to keep safe.

Call me today for a private consultation 617-512-4581. Laurie Randazzo, ABR, BROKER, MBA | RE/MAX Leading Edge