Seniors and Downsizing Snafus to Avoid

Seniors and Downsizing Snafus to Avoid

Downsizing may feel like a monumental task, especially if you've lived in your home for many years. Ensuring you don't do the following can make your downsizing efforts simpler. Below, Charlotte County Realty presents some tips that can help you avoid any snafus.

Failing to Plan

One anxiety-inducing mistake in downsizing is a lack of planning. It's a good idea to create a list of tasks. Some items to add to your checklist include getting help with packing, filing your address change, and turning on utilities in your new home.

Leaving a Support System

The lure of nice year-round weather is enough to entice some to downsize and relocate, but consider your family and friends. You may think you'll develop a new support system, but they may not be as helpful as those you surround yourself with now.

Underestimating Costs

Depending on your location, the rates for professional downsizing services range from $40 to $150 per hour. You'll need to find companies that offer package plans and free estimates.

Going It Alone

If vacating a large home or one you've lived in for many years, you have hundreds of items to sort through. Don't be afraid to ask family or friends for help. If finances permit, you may want to hire a senior move manager, who can help you with planning, sorting, packing, and overseeing movers, among other tasks. 

Decluttering Improperly

Some tips for decluttering include disposing of duplicate items and those you've not used in a year. Set up a keep and a throw-away pile, and label boxes as you pack them to aid organization. Consider donating items to charity, having a yard sale, or giving cherished items to family members.

Storing Things You Don't Need

Placing items you no longer need in a storage space is expensive. If you haven't used them in a year, chances are you'll never retrieve them from your unit. In addition, forcing your family members to take things you're emotionally attached to isn't a good idea.

Failing to Consider Lifestyle

Take a look at the lifestyle you want when downsizing. 

•           Entertaining. If you like to entertain, you'll want to keep favorite items, such as table linens, flatware, and dishes. If you like doing it outside, remember your gas grill and fire pit.

•           Furniture. When deciding which pieces to keep, think about where you can place them in your new home. Large furniture items may no longer work for you. 

•           Clothing. Consider essentials and versatile pieces to save space. For example, you may no longer have room for 50 pairs of shoes. 

•           Guests. If planning on having overnight guests, you'll need an extra bedroom. Items to keep may include toiletries, bath towels, and linens.

Failing to Plan for Pets

Relocating can be stressful for pets. Since anxiety can cause accidents, you may want to invest in a dog litter box. This is especially useful if your dog is senior or if you live on the upper floor in an apartment building. Because dog litter boxes come in different sizes, shapes, and surfaces, consider the size of your pet, the ease of cleaning, and your budget before purchasing.

Downsizing Missteps

The above ideas will help you avoid downsizing missteps.

Visit Charlotte County Realty to discuss your downsizing venture.  Kathy Weithman, Broker/Owner, can help with all your real estate needs, whether it’s buying or selling, and offer more tips to make your downsizing venture successful.  Call Kathy at 810-444-3044 (cell).

Teresa Greenhill

teresa@mentalhealthforseniors.com