2 minute read

Getting your home ready to downsize

You may not feel ready to downsize yet, but it’s a good idea to think about your five or ten year plan and beyond. The options are varied and looking ahead can make the process even easier. For example, you might be healthy and independent but you just don’t need the extra space, so downsizing into a smaller house or apartment that is designed to support you as you age is a great way to prepare for the future.

Whatever stage you’re at, it’s a good idea for you, or your children, to start thinking about where you’d like to live and the steps you need to take.

1. Declutter

2. Get started

3. Prepare to move

4. Moving day

5. Settling in

STEP 1 - Plan ahead

It’s never too early to start clearing out large and small items you don’t need

1 Make notes about what you would like to give to family and friends, or even use coloured stickers on the items you want to leave to certain people.

2. Make a file of all your important documents like your passport, will, medical records, birth certificate and Enduring Power of Attorney and keep these handy

3. Dispose of documents you don’t need (be conscious of privacy - you may need a shredder for safe disposal).

4 Toss any old medication, household cleaners and junk

5. Donate any usable clothes, furniture, crockery and linen to charity.

STEP 2 - Get started

1. Use an exercise book or folder to keep information related to the move in one place.

2 Create a to-do list and keep a calendar of important dates

3 Set aside an hour or two each day to pack one section of your house so you don’t get overwhelmed by the task ahead.

4 Check when your area has its next rubbish collection

STEP 3 - Prepare to move

1. Ray White will get you quotes for removalists. Remember to keep a copy of the contract with your chosen company

2 We’ll help organise your mail redirection and notify organisations like banks, health insurance, utilities, accountant, solicitor and social clubs once you know your new address.

3. We’ll organise for the utilities to be connected to your new home with Ray White Home Now. We’ll help you compare different providers so you get the best deal

4. It’s helpful to make a floor plan of the new home and plot out where your favourite furniture will fit. Include accurate measurements and where the doors, appliances and windows are.

5 Pack an overnight bag with your essentials like toiletries, medication and a change of clothes .

STEP 4 - Moving Day

1. Confirm the arrival time with your removalist the day before and how you have to pay them.

2 Make sure you have someone helping you on the day, especially at the other end

3. Set your bedroom up as soon as possible, so you have a cosy place to curl up and rest at the end of the day.

4 Reach out to family & friends or hire some help to get unpacked and organised

STEP 5 - Settling in

1. If you’re moving outside of your local area, take a walk around your new neighbourhood or facility and discover where to find your local café, hairdresser, supermarket and medical centre

2. Work as quickly as you can to make your space feel like home again.

3 Be kind to yourself Moving is a big life moment and people can react in different ways

This article is from: