Downsizing – Everything you Need to Know
What is Downsizing?
Downsizing is the process of moving to a smaller property. That probably means your kids have flown the nest and it’s time to move from the family home that you have had for decades into something much more manageable. You have no doubt acquired a lot of belongings over the years so you’ll need to start deciding what is coming to the new property with you, and what isn’t. We’ve put together a guide on everything you need to remember when downsizing so that you don’t miss a thing.
Make a Plan
It’s time to make a detailed plan well in advance of your moving day. This should be a list of everything you have to do that can be checked off as you go. As well as this, it’s a good idea to make an inventory of all of the large pieces of furniture you have in your current home. Then sketch out a plan of your new home and write the items you definitely want to keep in each room. That way you are aware, well in advance, of what you might need to get rid of and what will fit in the new home.
Organise the Removal
The next step is to get in touch with a trusted removals company with around one month to spare. At Clockwork Removals we have been helping people move for more than 25 years. Clockwork Removals and Storage offer accredited removals, storage and packing services to individuals and families throughout the United Kingdom. Downsizing doesn’t have to be daunting. Our surveyors will come out to your property to give you a quotation based on what you’re planning on taking on the big day so try and decide this in advance.
De-Clutter
De-cluttering is the next step. This can be done by separating everything into three piles: keep, donate and recycle. If you have old furniture, books, or even clothes, charity shops would be thrilled to take them. That way you are doing your bit for a good cause whilst getting rid of clutter that cannot come to your new space. Once everything has been organised it’s time to pack. We will provide you with packing boxes and, if you haven’t purchased our packing service, all you need to do is start placing similar items in each box and labeling them. This makes it a lot easier when we are moving you into your new home as it can be taken to the correct room right away.
The Big Day
On the day of the move it is important that you move any valuables and money to your new property yourself as well as a small bag of essentials such as the kettle, some tea bags and biscuits. That way you have everything you will need to hand to start unpacking in your new home. We also think it’s an excellent idea to fill a box with cleaning supplies so that you can clean surfaces and inside cupboards as soon as you get in there.
Pros and Cons of Downsizing
So what are the pros and cons of downsizing your home? Reducing the cost of living is the number one benefit of downsizing. This could be through releasing equity on a larger home, reducing mortgage payments with a smaller home or a combination of the two. A reduction in energy bills on a smaller property will also contribute towards reduced living costs. According to recent Bank of Scotland research, on average moving from a five to a four bedroom home could save you as much a £650 a month.
This all sounds great, but things like; a reduction in living and storage space, distance from friends and family and moving to a new area are all things to consider when planning to downsize. As we mentioned above, decluttering or reducing the volume of household items you are taking to your smaller home must also be considered.
Don’t let downsizing stress you out, visit We Buy Any House if you’re looking to sell your home quickly and once you are ready to move we are the experts in quick, calm and efficient removals.
Get in touch with us today for your no obligation quotation. Give us a call on 0800 195 8671 or use our contact form.
