Guest Blog: 

Downsizing and Moving Solutions for Seniors

Written By: Melinda Stuart, Owner of Smart Moves 

Did you know the average American moves over 11 times throughout their lifetime, yet it remains on the list of top three most stressful things we do? If a move is in your future, it doesn’t have to be stressful. There are several things you can do to make your next move more enjoyable.

Have a Game Plan

Without a game plan in place, you may find yourself doing a lot of work and feeling like nothing is getting done. To prevent feeling like you’re spinning your wheels, it’s best to start with an end date in mind. This could be the day you want to list your current home on the market or your scheduled moving date. From there, plan backwards. For example, if your move date is in two months; when do you need everything packed, which day do you want to schedule the movers, when should your current home be cleaned, when will family members pick up the items they have said they are interested in taking, etc.? Then decide who is going to do what and when to check the to-do items off your list.

Plan for the New Space

Work with a professional or make your own scale floor plan to see how your furniture will fit in the new space. Your team on move day can use this plan as a guide on where to place furniture during the move-in. This also allows you to take stock of what you will not be taking so you can decide if items can be sold, gifted, donated, recycled, or disposed of.

Start Downsizing and Sorting Now

Even if you’re not planning on moving for many years, it is never too soon to start the sorting and organizing process. 15 minutes a day is recommended to work on sorting items. Paperwork, photos, clothing, food and medication are great areas to start. Ask yourself, is this still something I use, do I still like it, and do I have room for it? If the answer is no, then make a plan to find the item a new home.

Ask for Help

There are great resources that can make your move easier including: a professional realtor, stager, estate sale or settlement company and specialty move manager. An experienced move manager can pull all the resources together and serve as your project manager throughout the entire transition. To find a move manager near you go to www.nasmm.org  and click on “find a move manager”. Using professional help will drastically reduce the amount of time and stress associated with your move.

Following these tips will get you off to a great start to prepare for your upcoming move. Going through the process can be very rewarding. Taking stock of what you want to take into the next chapter and what you are ready to let go of can be freeing and help you create the space you want in your new home. Make a plan, downsize early, and ask for help and your next move can be your best move.

Smart Moves offers compassionate moving, organizing, and downsizing services. We bring a personal touch to the process while providing an insured and honest service for individuals and families. We begin with a complimentary consultation to learn more about what you need and how we can help. Smart Moves provides specialty move management services in Southeast Wisconsin.