WHY SCALE DOWN?
Whether you need to simplify your life or you want to cut utility costs, scaling down has wonderful benefits. A smaller home is easier to maintain, and you don’t have to give up your quality of life. There are many situations where scaling down is a smart move.
Common reasons for scaling down:
- The kids are grown, and the nest is empty.
- Your current home is too big for your needs.
- You travel often, or you travel for a living.
- You want to save money on energy and maintenance costs.
- You need a space that’s physically easier to get around in.
Scaling down can open doors elsewhere. Splurge on your hobbies, take vacations or boost retirement accounts with the money you’ll save. Selling your current home could even fund your new endeavor.
IS SCALING DOWN RIGHT FOR YOU? HOW TO DECIDE
Scaling down isn’t for everyone. Take time to evaluate your lifestyle and future goals. A growing family or home-based business might benefit from an extra room or two. If your plans fit into a smaller space than the one you’re in, downsizing could be your best move yet.
Before you take the plunge, ask yourself:
- Will my grown kids or aging parents need to move in at any point?
- Will my hobbies or future goals require a home studio or office?
- Will downsizing require major lifestyle changes?
- Can I part with belongings that won’t fit into a smaller space?
- Is it difficult to keep up with cleaning in my current home?
- Do entire sections or rooms in my current home go unused?
- Is it difficult to keep up with bills?
Smaller is smarter when it allows you to take control of your finances and
build a brighter future.
THE BIG BENEFITS OF SMALLER SPACES
Scaling down can free up time and lead to big savings. Consider the ways
downsizing might improve your quality of life—your future self will thank you.
Scaling down can help you:
- Save money on utility costs, like heating and cooling.
- Redirect savings toward paying off debt or into retirement funds.
- Cut down on clutter.
- Pay your mortgage off faster.
- Spend more time doing the things you love.
- Live in an eco-friendly, energy-efficient space.
PRO-TIPS FOR SCALING DOWN
Do you have your heart set on scaling down? Plan ahead for a smooth transition.
The following tips will help you get started:
- Give Yourself Plenty of Time—plan ahead and give yourself enough time
to sort through belongings. It’s easy to underestimate how long this will
take, so leave yourself lots of wiggle room. - Choose a Prime Location—investing in a new home that is close to your
job, family or hobbies can help simplify your life even further. - Assess Your Belongings—scaling down is a great opportunity for
decluttering. Evaluate your belongings with a critical eye and focus on
keeping items that make you happy. - Leave Memorabilia for Last—a stroll down memory can slow you down.
Leave the task of sorting through sentimental items for last. With the
bulk of the work done, you can allow time and space for nostalgia. - Pack Methodically—stay organized and label everything clearly. It will
make all the difference when it’s time to unpack in a smaller space. - Budget for New Furniture—if your current furniture won’t fit into your
new space, don’t forget to budget for new furniture. Consignment and
garage sales offer an eco-friendly way to recycle old furniture and fund
those new purchases. - Keep it Functional—choose functional furniture with multiple uses or
built-in storage space to make the most of your new home.
Is scaling down the change you need? Give me a call to see what’s available! We can discuss your needs and whether scaling down is the right decision for you. I’m always happy to help find the best options for you and your family.
