Downsizing checklist for beginners

Do you need to downsize your home? It may sound scary and impossible if you are a beginner, but there is something that can help you during this process. Having a downsizing checklist will make the entire process easier for you. It does not matter if you do not have experience – you can downsize by yourself.

Why people are downsizing home?

• Less is more – sometimes having a smaller home is better and more beautiful.
• Less maintenance.
• People in smaller homes feel closer and they have more bonding time.
• Saving money.
• Less debt.

You can stay in the same house, but, getting rid of unnecessary items will also help. A cluttered home is messy and it looks smaller than it is. Besides downsizing, make a cleaning checklist too and your home will be brand new.

Prepare a downsizing checklist

What steps to take when downsizing a home? If you are new at this, make a to-do list and follow it. How to make the checklist? Here are some tips.

Start ASAP

Do not waste your time and start as soon as possible with the downsizing. Starting at the last minute will not help you at all. If you are moving to a smaller home, decide what to move and what not to move. Packing takes most of the time when moving. Usually one month.

Take inventory

To be organized when downsizing, take inventory of your items. Before starting a decluttering process, take a paper and take belongings inventory.

Measure

Measure your furniture and if you are moving to a new home – measure every room (walls, doors, ceiling).  This will also help you decide what to move to a new home. What will fit in or not? Organize a floor plan with the right measures.

One room at a time

Focus on one room at a time when following your downsizing checklist, and don’t multitask. If you are moving and need to pack, start with the room you are not using often. Such as the basement or attic. If you are not moving, start with smaller home projects. Organize kid’s room, add more storage space in your home, etc.

Renting a storage unit

If you are moving to a smaller home, but you do not want to say goodbye to all your items. You can keep them in a storage unit. All that you have to do is to find a reliable storage company and to pack for a storage unit properly. Storage units are a safe space for all your household items.

What to do with items you do not want anymore? After making the downsizing checklist, you need to figure out what will you do with items you do not need. You do not need them in a storage unit. Some of the main options are: selling, donating, recycling, or giving them to your friends.