Downsizing Your Home in the Time of Crisis

We live in very uncertain times. The coronavirus pandemic and the resulting limitation on individuals’ movements and businesses have made it very difficult to fulfill any plans one may have had before this crisis. On the other hand, while it might be a little bit more difficult to get something done, a worldwide pandemic does not actually make the whole world stop. People have had to carry on with their moves or other plans they may have had. The same goes for downsizing. Now, downsizing your home in the time of crisis won’t really differ much from what it would usually look like. It may go a little slower, or you will have to take more precautions, but you can still get it done quite easily.

Why do people downsize?

Reasons why people decide to downsize their homes are varied. Generally speaking, it happens when you realize you suddenly have much more space or facilities than you realistically need. Thinking about downsizing your home? Usually this would mean that you are either planning retirement or you have sent your youngest child off to college. Downsizing usually implies a move into a smaller, more easily manageable property.

5 reasons not to be afraid of downsizing

Downsizing your home in the time of crisis may seem complicated or messy. However, as everyone is in self-isolation, it may actually be even easier to get to work on this project than it would usually be. If you are still on the fence, here are 5 reasons not to be afraid of downsizing:

1. You’ll probably be able to spend less.
2. Not only that, but selling off a large property and buying a smaller one will mean your savings will increase.
3. De-cluttering your space will give you a chance to make a fresh start.
4. You will get to design and decorate your new place just the way you want it.
5. The new space will be easier to manage.

All of these are reasons why downsizing in the time of crisis might actually be a good idea. No one knows what the future brings, but the whole world is afraid of an ensuing recession. Having some money from the sale of your home and reducing your expenses will help keep you somewhat comfortable in the event of a financial crisis.

Out with the old and in with the new

First things first, you need to sell your old place and find a new spot. When doing this, try to envision what your life will look like. What are some of the necessities you cannot live without? Which of your belongings you know you are absolutely taking with you and which do you want to leave behind? For the most part, your everyday life won’t actually have to change much. You just need less space and fewer rooms. Write down what your absolute deal breakers would be for the new property and start from there.

De-clutter

Once you have found your new place, it is time to go through your belongings and decide what you really need. This is why downsizing your home in the time of crisis could actually be good. You are spending all of your time at home anyway, so you will have plenty of time to go through all of your things. You should try to sort everything into three piles. One should be the things you want to take with you, one the things you want to trash and one the things you can give away. Be honest with yourself and try not to be too sentimental.

When it comes to your furniture, you shouldn’t do away with it unless you are sure that you absolutely cannot take it with you. This is why it is important to know where you are moving first. That way you can measure your furniture and see what would fit into your new space.

Organize the move

Otherwise, you may feel tempted to handle your move all on your own. However, if you are downsizing your home during a crisis, you may want to move to a new neighborhood with reliable help. Hiring professional movers will ensure your belongings are handled safely and you yourself do not have to worry about logistics. Meanwhile, you can focus on the myriad other things that will require your attention.

It is not difficult to find trustworthy movers using websites like Master Moving Guide. You will be able to compare quotes and see where you can get your money’s worth. Also, you shouldn’t feel wary because you are downsizing your home in the time of crisis. Most moving companies take their employees’ and their clients’ health and safety very seriously, so they take all of the necessary precautions.

Find storage

One of the tips for downsizing your home before retirement, as mentioned above, is to get rid of anything you won’t need. This means shredding paper as well and going through boxes upon boxes. In many cases, you won’t be able to part with every little thing. Simultaneously, you won’t be able to fit it all in your new place. This is where renting storage comes into play. However, just because you decide to rent storage space doesn’t mean that you should lose your edge when it comes to de-cluttering. Many experts suggest using the one-year rule when going through your things. The one-year rule means you throw away anything you haven’t used, needed or thought of in the past year. This way, you won’t feel tempted to keep something just because it has a tiny bit of sentimental value.

Conclusion

All in all, downsizing your home in the time of crisis is not much different from doing it at any other time. Even more so, it may just be the perfect thing to do with your hours at this time. The downsizing benefits far outweigh the downsides, as you will be able to decrease your spending and live a more streamlined life.