C&G’s Guide to Downsizing

Tips & Advice

There comes a time when living in a big home is no longer the joy it once was. Retirement may be on the horizon, children may have flown the nest and priorities turn to travel or living a more urban or rural lifestyle. If you’re nodding in agreement, now might be the time to consider downsizing. Moving on from a large family home can seem like a daunting task, but with some forward planning and considered research, it can be a liberating experience. In today’s C&G blog, we highlight our top tips for making downsizing a seamless experience.

Consider Your Options

If downsizing for retirement, chose a home that will remain appropriate and comfortable as you mature. Opt for a single level residence that will be easy to navigate. You may even want to move closer to family and friends (or further away, as the case may be!). Think about where you’ll be happiest and most able to access amenities and the communities you love. Will you live in the heart of the city, or will you move to a seaside village? Consider all options and really brainstorm what your life will be like in 5, 10 or 20 years.

Give Yourself Time

The downsizing process will inevitably take longer than you think, so it serves you to get a head start. Don’t try to ‘Marie Kondo’  your entire house a weekend – instead, break the task of de-cluttering into sections of the house over several months. If you rush through the downsizing process, you might misplace belongings or find yourself more stressed than necessary.

‘Yes’ And ‘No’ Piles

An efficient downsizer doesn’t have time for ‘maybe’ piles! When sorting through belongings resulting from years of living in the same place, there are bound to be items that pull at your heart strings. Eliminate the umming and ahh-ing and be decisive about your personal effects. We recommend that you donate items you don’t need to a charity – one of our favourites is the Sacred Heart Mission.  

eBay and Gumtree

Supersized couch won’t fit in your new place? Have a bunch of quality old clothes that don’t fit anymore? Acquaint yourself with eBay and auction belongings that don’t serve you anymore. You may be surprised at how much you can pocket from such an exercise. 

Call in Assistance

If you can’t manage the process of downsizing by yourself, call on friends, family and professionals to give you a helping hand. It’s no small task, downsizing.