When you decide to downsize to a new house, one of your biggest decisions is what to bring with you, and what to leave behind. Before you start packing, plan ahead and take only the items you will use and enjoy.
If you are like many others, you may have accumulated a ton of stuff that you no longer need - or want. Maybe the kids are off to college and no longer playing baseball, or you might not be interested in the activities you once enjoyed. Moving to a new downsized home is a good time to clear the clutter and take Marie Kondo's advice by only moving with the things that "spark joy."
Consider your Lifestyle
Moving to a smaller home is the time to be realistic when you decide whether to take or leave seldom used items. Keep in mind that technology has helped downsize many activities, and a smaller keyboard may be just the thing to replace a large piano. You may also be at the point where you want to spend time enjoying cultural events and making social connections.
Dispense with Unwanted Items
Start by creating three piles - things you definitely want to keep, things you definitely want to get rid of, and things you are undecided about. Stay organized and sell or donate items that are still usable and in pretty good condition, and place useless items in the recycle bin. Then tackle the "undecided" pile and be realistic about what you will use in your new life, and what you may not.
Measure your New Space
As much as you might love your beautiful oversized sectional, it is a good idea to assess your new space to make sure your existing furniture will fit without blocking doors and windows. A small-scale dinette set, a stylish new loveseat, a coffee table to replace the old one and a beautiful new cabinet to store your possessions behind closed doors might serve you better than your existing furniture.
Think about Moving Costs
Before you decide to take large and heavy furniture with you, consider whether it is worthwhile to pay for moving costs. You may be better off selling the items and using the proceeds to buy something new that will be more stylish and useful in your new home, like a media cabinet or a multipurpose sleeper sofa.
Stay Organized
Reduce the stress of your move by creating a moving checklist to keep track of things you need to do during your move, like canceling utilities. Even if you hire a mover, there are things you may want to pack yourself. Make sure to have the right tools, like boxes, markers, labels and packing tape. Cardboard wardrobes can be real time saver for both packing and unpacking.
When you are looking for new furniture for your new home, visit Home Living Furniture online or in person for the best selection.
