10 Things to Do Before Downsizing Your Home

1. Start Early & Give Yourself Time

Downsizing isn’t something you want to rush. Start sorting through your belongings at least a few months before your move. Giving yourself time helps prevent stress and allows for thoughtful decision-making.

2. Assess Your New Space

Before you begin packing, take measurements of your new home or living space. Knowing the size of rooms, storage spaces, and layout will help you determine what furniture and belongings you can take with you.

3. Declutter One Room at a Time

Sorting through a lifetime of belongings can be overwhelming. Instead of tackling everything at once, go room by room, starting with the least sentimental areas like storage rooms or the garage.

4. Categorize Your Belongings

As you go through each room, separate items into four categories: ✔ Keep – Items you’ll use and have space for in your new home.
✔ Donate – Things in good condition that someone else can use.
✔ Sell – Valuable items that could generate extra cash. ✔ Discard – Anything broken, outdated, or no longer needed.

5. Focus on Sentimental Items Last

It’s normal to feel emotional when downsizing, especially when letting go of sentimental items. Start with practical belongings first and save sentimental objects for last. Take photos of keepsakes you can’t bring but want to remember.

6. Create a Moving Plan

Plan out the logistics of your move, including:

• Hiring movers or enlisting family for help.

• Booking a moving truck if needed.

• Establishing a timeline for selling, donating, and packing.

7. Get Professional Help When Needed

If downsizing feels overwhelming, consider working with professionals who specialize in senior moving, real estate, or decluttering. At Downsizing In Bay of Quinte, we offer full-service support to make the process seamless.

8. Sell or Donate Unwanted Items

There are many ways to rehome items you no longer need, including:

• Hosting a garage sale.

• Selling online through Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji.

• Donating to local charities or shelters.

9. Organize Important Documents

Make sure all your important documents—wills, financial statements, medical records, and real estate paperwork—are organized and easily accessible before your move.

10. Plan Your New Home Setup

Once you know what you’re bringing, think about how it will be arranged in your new space. Consider functionality, accessibility, and comfort to create a home that works for your new lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

Downsizing can be an emotional and logistical challenge, but with the right plan, it becomes an opportunity for a fresh, simplified lifestyle. If you’re thinking about downsizing, our team at Downsizing In Bay of Quinte is here to help make the process stress-free.

Contact us today for expert downsizing advice and real estate services!