The Possibilities of Downsizing

Sifting through the phases of our lives doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.

As you start sorting through belongings and deciding what to take to your new home, you will have to figure out what to do with the items you will not be keeping.

To help make the choice that’s right for you, consider the pros and cons of your options. Gifting items to family and friends is a wonderful way to share items and memories. An estate sale is a popular option to get rid of many items at once. eBay is the most well-known marketplace and can be a good option to sell smaller collectible items. Items sold on eBay are often smaller in size because the buyer often pays for the cost of shipping. Consignment shops are a good option if you have brand name items that have value. Donating items to charity is an option that can make you feel good, save time, and may be eligible for a tax deduction, providing for the greatest economic gain.

Now that you have some initial ideas on what to do with your belongings that you will not be taking with you to your new home remember —

Think about the possibilities of downsizing and consider the following ideas:

1. Make a list of your priorities in life: wellness, hobbies, spirituality, family, financial well-being, intellectual stimulation, etc. Refer to this list often as you downsize to help guide decisions.
2.  Rediscover your style — create the interiors you have always wanted.
3. Have a downsizing party for friends — tag items you are ready to share and let them each pick what they would like to take home that night.
4.  Have an inheritance party for the family — each family member gets their own color of post-its and marks the items they would like to inherit — you decide now or later.