Downsizing Tips

Whether you're looking to simplify your lifestyle, cut costs, or just purchase a smaller home, downsizing is a popular option for retirees in the Harford County area. However, the process of uprooting your life and moving to a new place can seem a bit overwhelming, especially if you've lived in your current home for a long time. Your house is probably more than just four walls and a roof, too—it's a place where you've created memories with those you love.

Believe it or not, downsizing doesn't have to be a difficult process! Here's everything you need to know before you make a move and embrace this new season of life.

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Your Guide to Downsizing

Evaluate Your Options

Many older adults believe that downsizing involves moving to a retirement community or nursing home, but this isn't always the case. Depending on your age, income, and health, you may have more options than you might think.

Before you formally begin the downsizing process, take some time to do a little research...and some soul searching. This may involve asking yourself tough questions about your savings, the type of home you want to live in, and where you see yourself in the next decade. It may be worth talking to a real estate agent or financial advisor, too.

Explore Local Communities

Even if you haven't made up your mind about downsizing, it's worth exploring local communities in Harford and Baltimore Counties to see what's out there. Our area is home to a variety of top-rated active adult and continuing care communities, but you may also want to stick with a smaller property in a conventional neighborhood.

Don't forget to consider the type of home you want, too. Condos and townhomes come with less square footage and maintenance, which makes them a popular choice for empty nesters.

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Benefits of Downsizing

Save money

Living in a smaller, right-sized home is a smart financial decision, especially if you're on a fixed income.

Less maintenance

If you choose to move into a condo or active adult community, you won't have to worry about exterior home maintenance.

More freedom

Retirement is all about the freedom to do what you want—and in a smaller, low maintenance home, you'll spend more time doing what you love.

More Tips on Downsizing

Don't Get Too Emotional

Selling a home is undoubtedly an emotional experience. Your current house holds quite a few memories, and it's easy for nostalgia to take over as you go through your belongings.

Before you start this new journey, know that it's okay to feel sad, nervous, happy, or a mixture of emotions. Allow yourself plenty of time to process these big changes, but don't let your feelings get the best of you. You can even use this time as an opportunity to bond with your loved ones—try inviting them over for a reorganizing session or gifting them with some of your favorite heirlooms that you can't bring with you!

Start Early

Downsizing isn't always as easy as a regular move—it often involves getting rid of all your extra stuff, reworking your lifestyle, and planning for the future. This is a lot to tackle all at once, so don't be afraid to break it down into smaller tasks.

Depending on your situation, the process of downsizing could take a few months or even over a year. It may be worth writing out a plan of action with achievable goals—like cleaning out the attic or choosing a real estate agent—that will keep you working towards the bigger picture.

Paring Down Your Belongings

Declutter

Work room by room to get rid of everything you won't need in your newer home. Consider putting things into simple "yes" or "no" piles—if you can't make up your mind about something, you probably shouldn't keep it! From there, you can sell, donate, or toss what you aren't bringing with you.

Reorganize

Once you've determined what you aren't keeping, it's time to get a head start on reorganizing what's staying with you. You'll probably be working with less square footage in your new place, which means you'll have to get creative with storage and reimagine where things might go.

Start packing

After you've successfully gotten rid of everything you don't need, it's time to start packing! If you don't want to do the work yourself, it may be worth hiring a moving company. However, it's best to pack all valuables yourself or keep them in storage until after you move.

Always Work with an Experienced Agent

The single most important thing you can do during this stressful and emotional time is to have a professional real estate agent on your side. You'll want to work with an agent that has experience with downsizers like you, and they should also be familiar with popular active adult communities in your area.

If you're looking for a seasoned pro that can get the job done right, give the Lee Tessier Team a call today. Our agents know the ins and outs of downsizing, and we'd love to help you navigate this exciting chapter in your life.

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Looking to Downsize Your Home?

Whether you have some questions about moving to a right-sized home or are ready to begin the process, the Lee Tessier Team is here to help. Feel free to get in touch with us or browse out detailed guide to active adult communities to get started!