Your Ultimate Guide to Downsizing

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Living a care-free retirement is one of life’s greatest pleasures. And, like most good things, it can take a little leg work to get there. Set yourself up for success by choosing the right senior living community for the life you want and setting aside time to declutter before the move.

Imagine Your Future

Where do you see yourself ten years from now? Relaxing on the beach? Strolling through a city? Enjoying low-key living or a bustling community? Make a list of your must-haves for this next chapter of your life, and keep your goals in mind as you move forward.

Create a budget for yourself. Make sure it’s reasonable, but also aspirational. Remember to take into account both the initial investment and ongoing costs like property taxes and utilities. An honest budget now will be your best friend later.

Call in a Friend (or Pros!)

You don’t have to be alone in this journey. Having a friend over for the afternoon as you sort can both ease the process and encourage you to continue (accountability is a helpful tool!).

Real estate agents and professional organizers are also amazing resources. Save yourself some stress by leaning on professional experience. Fountain View Village has partnered with LivNow Relocation, who specialize in retirement community moving, to help incoming residents have a smooth move into our community.  “We know our customers will thrive in Fountain View Village. Our goal is to help them get there so they can start enjoying their new home sooner rather than later,” says Co-Founder Lisa Burns.

Declutter With Purpose

Putting in the time to organize and declutter now will save you countless hours and headaches later. If you feel overwhelmed – that’s okay. Divide and conquer your way through the home. Approach each room individually, giving yourself both the space to sort through your belongings and more immediate accomplishment as you finish each space.

As Burns says, “It’s never too early to begin the downsizing process.” Organizing and decluttering in advance takes a lot of stress off your move down the road. The sooner you start the process, the less hurried you’ll feel later.

Take the Time to Say Goodbye

It can be hard to let go of possessions, even ones that don’t bring us joy anymore. As Marie Kondo advises in her famous self-help tidying-up book, it’s important to recognize the importance that objects have had in our lives.

Having trouble donating that shirt from the back of your closet? Though it might seem silly, take a moment to think about the times you’ve enjoyed wearing it, and recognize that it’s served its purpose in your life. Giving a “farewell” to objects can make it easier to let go.

Plan for the Future

As you downsize, consider what you will want (and need) in 10, 15, 20 years down the road. Single-level living, accessible and customizable features, and smart bathroom layouts and designs can all save you from a disruptive move later on.

Your future is what you want to make of it! Visit Fountain View Village and discover if our active senior living community and maintenance-free lifestyle is the right fit for you.