If you want to live a simpler, happier life in your golden years, downsizing is a great place to start. When you downsize your living situation, you are forced to let go of all those material things your old place holds. The things you own take up your time and energy. Letting them go gives you all of that back so you can channel it into getting the most out of your retirement. When you move to a smaller space, you also have less upkeep to worry about. It also slashes the taxes, utilities and insurance costs, making it easier for you to live on a fixed budget. A smaller place is also safer and facilitates healthy aging in place.
There are simply so many reasons to downsize in retirement. Here’s how you do it.
Get a Feel of the Housing Market
Before you decide to sell your home and move a smaller one, get a feel for the housing market in your area. Knowing what’s out there and what you may get for selling your home can be a huge factor in your decision making. Check online to get a feel of average cost of homes that are the right size and in your desired area. For instance, homes in Pismo Beach, California, have sold for $905,000 on average in the past month.
Start Cleaning Out
Even if you ended up deciding not to move, you won’t regret downsizing your belongings. Cleaning out old junk and letting go of possessions is therapeutic. In fact, clutter can be downright emotionally draining. For some people, letting go of things is difficult. They look at their possessions as a source of security and fear what letting go of that perceived security may do. However, it’s important to overcome that fear and embrace the good aspects of decluttering. When you have a clear physical space, you create clarity in your mental space. Separating yourself from items puts distance between you and the past, which is healing. When you decide to get rid of something holding you back, that builds strength and character. And don’t forget the simple ease of a life with less stuff.
More helpful tips for cleaning out items:
● Take this opportunity to go ahead and pass family heirlooms to those you love.
● Give yourself time to complete the task. You don’t have to get it all done in one weekend.
● If you’re feeling sentimental about an item, allow yourself to reminisce for a bit. Once you’re done, say 'thank you' to the item for its service in your life and letting it go should be easier.
● Donate items in good condition to a local charity that will come and pick up the boxes for you.
● Only keep items that you use regularly and that truly enhance your quality of life.
Move Safely
If you’ve cleaned out your belongings and found the perfect house, moving is the next big step. When moving boxes, use tools that help carry the weight to prevent injury. Hire a reputable moving company that will take care of big items like furniture and appliances. Make sure they are fully insured not just for the movers’ health, but also for any damaged or lost items. When ordering packing supplies, go ahead and order more than you may need. You can always return what you do not use. And if you have pets, consider boarding them on moving day. Once you are all settled in your new place, you can pick them up and introduce them to their new environment so they can adjust accordingly.
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Downsizing is a great way to pursue a simpler and happier life in your golden years. When looking for homes, do research online to cut down on the amount of leg work you have to put in. Start downsizing your belongings immediately to give yourself ample time for the endeavor. Finally, make sure your move is safe and injury free by using tools that help you pick up boxes and hiring movers to lift the big items.