How to Downsize Your Home in 6 Steps

Moving is stressful on its own, but when you’re also paring down your possessions and potentially changing climates to boot, it takes on some new challenges. Not to worry, the process of downsizing your home can leave you leaner and reinvigorated for your next adventure. So, let’s get started.

1. Take stock of what you own. Making a detailed inventory is useful — and eye-opening. Three waffle irons? Probably not necessary to keep them all. The inventory will help you identify what is outdated, duplicated or no longer needed. Include the condition and market value of each item. This list can help you get an estimate for the cost of your move and also serve as a packing list.

2. Measure twice, move once. Knowing the dimensions and the floor plan of your new home will help you decide what makes sense to move. Take precise measurements of the new space and then measure your furniture and other bulky items. That way you can rule out items that won’t fit or, just as importantly, won’t flow in the layout of your new space. Remember that it’s a lot easier to part with items now instead of paying to move them and then realizing they don’t fit.

3. Consider your new lifestyle. Moving from a house with a backyard to somewhere more urban, or to a condo complex that takes care of your yard for you? You might not need the garden tools and other outdoor supplies. If you are heading somewhere warmer, you can leave behind the winter gear and clothing. If there are items you may use only rarely in your new abode, consider leaving them behind.

4. Weigh the cost. Another factor in deciding what to downsize: the condition and quality of the items. Worn-out sofas and heavy particle board furniture are good candidates to sell, donate or discard. It may be more cost-effective to part with your bulkier items and replace them, if needed, after you move. This will leave more room for the valuable and antique items that you definitely want to bring with you.