4 Tips for Downsizing
If you or someone you know is thinking of moving to a smaller home or a retirement community, here are some tips that will help make your transition smoother.
1. Start a “TO DO” notebook
Here you will list the tasks that need doing, as well as names of professionals whose services you may need for your adventure. These include packers, movers, contractors, antique appraisers, collectable professionals, vendors, handy people, painters, professional organizers, and interior designers.
2. Inventory your furnishings
Measure and photograph every item of furniture you believe you want to take with you. Purchase furniture templates at 1/4″ scale from an art supply store or download them from the internet.
3. Make a floor plan
Using 1/4″ graph paper, or working from a plan provided by your community (be sure it’s at 1/4″ scale) place each piece of furniture and area rug you believe you want to take with you to the new living space onto your floor plan.
4. Revise your expectations . . .
Unload anything that won’t fit. Determine which pieces you need to give up, and make plans to sell, give away, throw away, or donate each piece. Enjoy this opportunity to unburden yourself of anything that does not bring you joy (to quote Marie Kondo).
Should all of this appear too perplexing or arduous for you, please give us a call. During the past 25 years Emery & Associates have done numerous projects for clients who are “in transition.” We’ve done apartments and condos for seniors who are downsizing, as well as for middle-aged clients who are going through divorces or other kinds of traumatic changes, most often moving from large homes to much smaller living spaces. We are able to empathize with the client’s angst during these changes, and at the same time help them sort through their possessions with scaled-out floor plans in hand so we can show them what will FIT, literally, into the space, as well as what may need to go away or be replaced. We are confident that you will feel enriched rather than diminished by the experience.
There are 7 Comments to "4 Tips for Downsizing"
What a wonderful post, Kathia! And a great break down. But I highly recommend you and your company for helping those who wish to downsize and do it with beauty, class and ease contact you! All our very best!
Thanks so very much for the kind words, Donna.
This method must eliminate much guesswork. I think even I, measurement phobic, would give it a try. But, it would be a plus to have guidance from Emery &Associates!
I’ve never met anyone who is measurement phobic! But I still do it the old-fashioned way with a big steel tape measure. My colleagues laugh at me, since they all use electronic measuring tools.
Thank you Kathia! Good info. What a colorful, luscious interior in such a small space. You make everything look so beautiful.
Thanks so much, Holly. You have such a fabulous eye! Your comments mean a lot to me.
Thanks for the practical tips and inspiring photograph. Almost makes me want to downsize! We actually are thinking of it…getting closer.