Downsizing Your Home for a Move
You’ve decided it’s time to move to a smaller home. Now you need to organize and sort your belongings. It can be an overwhelming prospect, but we can help. Here are a few tips on downsizing.
Your New Space
Consider your new home. When you are going through things, ask yourself if an item has a place or will fit in your new place. Are you moving to a townhome with a rec center? The gym equipment can go. Senior housing with meal services? Small kitchen appliances may no longer be needed. Do you have room for the large sectional that’s currently in your living area? If not, let it go.
Sorting
Sorting can be a difficult chore. Don’t be tempted to make a big “maybe” pile — you’ll end up spending a lot of extra time going through those items again. Decide what you want to keep, donate, or discard.
Keep
Don’t let what you paid for something determine whether it is something you will keep. That expensive exercise bike that acts as a clothes hanger in your bedroom can be donated to someone who will use it. Look at your furniture first. These are the biggest pieces for your move. Will they fit in the new space? The sofa and chair from a big living room may be overwhelming in a condo. Do you want to keep them or have a fresh look and feel? Does your new home come with appliances, or do you need to keep the ones you have? If you don’t need them, put them in the donate pile. When thinking of keeping something, consider its condition — if it’s worn out, put it in the discard pile. Do you have multiples of something? Just keep one. If you toss an item out, will you buy another? Keep it.
Donate
Items that are in good condition can be donated. Check in your area for organizations that accept medical equipment, used appliances, clothing, books, and other items you have that are gently used and could be enjoyed by someone else. Look up your nearest Goodwill, Salvation Army, or Habitat for Humanity. Ask for a receipt when you donate items. You may be able to claim the donation on your taxes.
Discard
It’s tempting to purge, but keep in mind the expense of replacing items you have and will need later. When you’re ready to downsize a household, you will likely need a dumpster. Realistically consider the amount you have to throw away when choosing a dumpster size.
Ask an Expert
If you need help determining the size of the dumpster you’ll need for a home cleanout, call 866.649.OAKS to speak with an expert at Oaks Dumpster Rental. We are always happy to help.