You may have reached a stage where decluttering and downsizing your home has become a key concern if that’s the case, congratulations!

As a senior, you may leave the home where you raised your children, which means you have many physical and emotional ties. Downsizing, on the other hand, can save you thousands of dollars in mortgage payments (freeing up money for the travel and hobbies you’ve always wanted to do) and lead to less stress. In addition, there will be less maintenance and more time for social possibilities.

Moving is always a significant undertaking, but it can become more difficult as you age. So we’ve put together some helpful recommendations to make the transition as smooth as possible, whether you’re moving yourself or an aging parent.

Start by Recognizing it is Time to Downsize

Recognize when it is appropriate to downsize. Your home appears too small one minute, then your children leave for college and begin their jobs. Suddenly that same home now feels so big and empty. Owning a large house in your senior years might be stressful. However, finding a new place right for you could alleviate some stress. Downsizing is a way of life for many people. It is a way to get a manageable home in your older years, freeing up time and money to do things you love. Check out my blog 5 Ways to Ease Moving Stress for more information

Sorting Through Possessions

Sort through your possessions. After deciding to downsize, sorting through years’ worth of belongings is the most challenging process. However, one thing is sure: you can only bring some stuff with you! Therefore, sorting through your belongings to determine what stays and what goes is not only a necessary first step in downsizing, but it can also be therapeutic if you let it. One helpful strategy is to categorize goods into four categories: garbage, storage, sell/give away and keep. Then, you can sell stuff online or organize an estate sale to recoup part of your expenses!

Packing

Pack your remaining belongings for the relocation. Apart from weeding through mounds of collected “stuff,” this is often the most time-consuming aspect of downsizing. Fortunately, this does not have to be the case. Some highly qualified specialists will do the heavy lifting for you, with no need for you to lift a finger. Furthermore, no matter your age, when you choose to work with Smith Dray Line, you will always receive VIP treatment.Smith Dray Line is also proud to provide residential and commercial moving and storage services.

Prepare for Moving

Make plans for a smooth and efficient moving day. When the big day arrives, you can only do so much to prepare for the emotions that may arise when saying goodbye to a home full of happy memories. However, by planning, you may ensure that your relocation is carried out securely and efficiently. Remember, this is the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your life; don’t start with unneeded aches and pains. Instead, count on the experts to help. Call Smith Dray Line at 833-572-0880 today!

Recognize that it is acceptable to be emotional. This is a big time in your life, and being emotional is a part of it. So here are a few things you may do to bid farewell to your former home properly:

Organize a cooling house party. This is, indeed, the polar opposite of a housewarming celebration. Instead, you can invite guests to share their favorite memories of your house (or better yet, have them write them down so you can refer back to them whenever you feel the need).

• Send the new owners a letter. This is another excellent approach to bringing your previous house to a close while leaving a meaningful gift for the new owners.
• Take pictures. Take pictures from the perspective of your favorite areas in the house for a unique way to recollect. We all get caught up in the moment, but taking pictures will help you preserve those memories.
• Set up your new residence. Make time to unwind and relax in your new home. If you want, throw a housewarming party! Get acquainted with the new neighbors and sounds, and enjoy a well-deserved break!

If you or someone you know is planning a senior move, call the friendly professionals at Smith Dray Line for a FREE moving estimate! We’ll ensure you’re taken care of from beginning to end and make you feel like a VIP the whole time!