Are you considering downsizing or moving to a “rightsized” home? Begin by evaluating why you are considering a move and list the benefits you wish to gain and the not so desirable qualities of your current space. Whether you decide to upsize, downsize or right size here are three questions you should ask yourself:
1. Is moving a smart financial move?
Consider the long-term risks or benefits of moving. Being realistic about your finances is a great step towards planning to upsize, downsize or right size. In many cases, budgets and savings have a limit for what is covered. Making solid financial plans or creating a financial plan could help you decide if a move is the right decision for you or your family’s future. Companies like Caring Transitions can help you offset the cost of any move from downsizing to upsizing and anything in-between.
2. Are you overwhelmed with the current responsi-bilities of maintaining your home?
In a recent Chicago Tribune article, research revealed the average American household spends approximately “70 hours a year on lawn and garden care, according to the American Time Use Survey.” Other research shows most households spends 20 hours each week maintaining their home. These hours and tasks can overwhelm some or be a small price to pay for a comfortable home to others.
3. Do I need all of my current items, moved to my new space?
When you look around your home, it can be a daunting and overwhelming experience wondering what to do with all you have accumulated. Items that were useful and important to you in the past, may not be items you want or need moving forward. To start the process, determine what you NEED to take with you; what you LOVE and want to take and lastly; what you would LIKE to take, if able. For the remaining items, donate or dis-card what you haven’t used within the last year. Decide if you should host an in-person estate sale or on-line estate sale auction to sell items with a company like Caring Transitions. Using a professional will assure that you are not donating or throwing away items that may have market value, and when it comes time to liquidate, a professional company can optimize your exposure to the market of buyers.
Whatever decision you make, the choice to move is a big decision. These questions aren’t always easy to ask but ARE extremely useful in helping you determine your housing needs and must haves.
Leslie McKinney is Owner and CEO of Caring Transitions of North Pittsburgh. Leslie has first hand experience in dealing with the emotional and physical struggles as she worked with her loved ones to downsize, move and liquidate personal items no longer needed. It is through this personal experience, that Leslie saw a need to help others reduce stress associated with this process. Caring Transitions of North Pittsburgh offers the full line of services to help clients and their families throughout their transition which includes: space planning, packing, move management, and resettling. Additionally, Caring Transitions provides liquidation services to include estate sales, and online auctions. Call for a free in-home consultation 724-939-6212 or email at [email protected]
