Planning to Get a Move On?

The kids are gone, the big yard needs mowing, the snow needs removing, and you have too much stuff that used to serve a purpose. There is never enough time to just relax. You have fantasies about a nice condo in a warm climate or a small cabin on a lake. But as you think about all the work it would take to accomplish this, and where to even start, you sigh, grab a cup of coffee, and dream on.

Take heart! Help is available at every turn. There are hundreds of books, websites, articles, and YouTube videos on downsizing to lower your blood pressure and get your mind working. You can do this! Even better, talk to someone you know that has been through the process. Consult friends and relatives for help with sorting through the thousands of items in your home, and finding ways to get rid of things you no longer need or want. Another answer to this daunting task is to hire a professional organizer to walk you through reducing the amount of stuff and preparing for a move, saving months of anxiety and frustration.

There are many things to consider when you decide to downsize. Research today’s real estate market whether you plan to rent or buy. How long do you feel you might be living there? Do you anticipate moving to an assisted living residence in a few years? Understand that 2018 housing markets show rising prices, and interest rates are increasing. If you own your home, request a current appraisal.

Moving to a smaller home does not necessarily mean spending much less on the new location. Are you planning to stay near your current home, or are you open to several new locations? Investigate costs of living in the areas you are considering, and the costs associated with moving there. How much upkeep do you want to have to do yourself? Do you want to care for a yard, rake your own leaves, and be responsible for keeping the plumbing and heating working?

So where do you start? Imagine your dream and follow your heart. Enlist help from friends and loved ones, and from professionals as desired or required. Share your wonderful possessions with those in need. Pass on the items that your children and other people significant in your life would like to have, and will make use of and cherish. Feel joyful as you move closer to your goal of changing from being buried in “treasures” to living a life of freedom and peace. Now sit back, pour that cup of coffee, and feel excited about the future.