You’ve reached your golden years. You may be thinking of retiring, or your children have left home and the house is starting to appear too big for you. You don’t need the extra rooms anymore, and maintaining the home is putting a strain on your expenses. You’ve decided it’s the right time to downsize to a smaller home and make improvements to the quality of your life. Simplify your living space so you can make time for the things that matter most to you.
In addition to considering all the benefits of downsizing, you should also bear in mind that there are specific steps you need to undertake to avoid complications. If you are a senior who is planning on downsizing to a smaller home in San Diego or have a loved one who is, keep on reading to discover some common mistakes people make when downsizing.
What should I consider when downsizing?
Here are four important considerations you should make when moving to a smaller home:
1. Pick the right location
There are several factors to take into consideration when finding the right location for your move. Are you looking to move closer to your family, or maybe a place with a warmer climate? Be sure to explore all of your options when looking for a smaller home. Make a list of preferred cities or neighborhoods that fit your criteria. If you’re staying locally, or perhaps moving to a place near the historic Balboa Park, make sure that the accommodations are suited to your future lifestyle.
2. Don’t forget to declutter
In the span of a lifetime, you will accumulate many belongings. The decision to declutter is an important one, as the move to a smaller place won’t be possible without it. Getting rid of stuff can be stressful, as many things you gather over time tend to have strong sentimental value. Plan ahead to declutter and save yourself the headache of choosing what to leave behind. Think about donating something to a local charity or non-profit organization. Spending too much time on what to throw away and what to keep can only cause anxiety.
3. Estimate how much space you need
People used to bigger living areas tend to underestimate just how much space they actually need when they look to downsize. Make sure that your place of living suits your future requirements.
Think of your interests and hobbies. If you’re into cooking, think about a home with a more oversized kitchen. If you like to entertain and have friends and family over, you will need a large living room. Naturally, you will have to make some sacrifices but think of the positives. Downsizing means less maintenance, fewer expenses, and more time to live life to the fullest. You’ll be gaining more than you realize.
4. Take your time
Downsizing isn’t an overnight decision, nor is it an easy one. It takes patience to avoid making mistakes about a life-altering decision. Before downsizing, you should plan to sell your home, but don’t rush it. Do the research, figure out the location and type of space you’ll be downsizing to, and make sure it is modified to your requirements. Only then should you put your house on the market. Although the purchase of your downsized home may not overlap with the sale of your house, you always have options. You can rent a place while you wait for the sale of your home. Once you’re in your new and improved setting, you’ll be happy you put in the extra effort.
Dependable downsizing service for seniors in San Diego
You’ve reached a point in your life where you want to make some changes. Now is the right time to downsize and enjoy your new, simplified, and easy-going lifestyle. Let our senior real estate specialist Nick Alameddin assist you in taking the leap and fulfilling your dreams. Contact us now!