If you’re like many seniors and Baby Boomers, you’ve started to think about downsizing. The kids are gone, you’ve got a large home, and maybe you’re slowing down a bit. But how do you know the time is right? The moving experts at Cowboy Moving & Storage in Englewood put together this list of tips for seniors as they contemplate downsizing.
1. Does it seem difficult to stay on top of maintaining your large home? Does it feel like it’s more work that it’s worth? Are there projects you know you should be doing (like upgrading that bathroom or kitchen) but you just don’t want to have to go through the hassle?
2. Are you concerned about having enough money for your retirement? Downsizing can oftentimes help you stretch your housing budget and provide more financial security as you age.
3. Is it getting harder to clean and maintain your home? Are you cleaning rooms that you never use? Household chores should never become difficult or avoided.
4. Are there multiple rooms in your home that you never use? They are costing you money to heat and cool and if you’re not using them, it’s a waste.
5. When you look around your home, do you see clutter? If you know you need to simplify your surroundings but don’t feel up to it, it’s probably time to consider moving to a smaller place.
6. Is it getting harder to go up and down the stairs? Is gardening and yard work more of a chore than a pleasurable hobby? As we age, mobility can be more challenging. Moving to a one-level home or maintenance free townhome or patio home might be a good solution.
Tips For Downsizing
If you’ve decided it’s time to downsize, it can certainly be done in stages. Here are some of the tasks you’ll need to do before the moving truck arrives.
1. Sort through your belongings. Create four categories: Keep, Store, Sell/Give and Trash. Do one room at a time so you’re not overwhelmed.
2. Go through all of your paperwork and documents. Many can be scanned and stored on your computer. Get rid of old tax returns and paperwork that is no longer relevant or needed. Invest in a shredder.
3. Invite your children and relatives to take a look at what you’re getting rid of. Chances are they’ll want some of your possessions.
4. Start shopping for your new home. Are you moving across the country to be closer to your kids and grandkids? Do you want to stay close to your same neighborhood? A realtor can help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
5. Talk to a few moving professionals. Get quotes from at least three companies. Look for a moving company that does background checks and alcohol and drug tests for their employees. Read online reviews and check their standing with the Better Business Bureau. It’s also smart to talk to movers that are experienced with helping seniors move, like Cowboy Moving & Storage in Englewood.
6. Once you’ve selected a mover, create a timeline for your move. Involve family members if possible.
Talk to a Senior Moving Expert in Denver
Cowboy Moving & Storage has been helping seniors move throughout Colorado since 1968. With more than 2,200 five-star reviews on ReviewBuzz, you’ll be able to get a good idea of the high quality level of service they provide. Whether you’re moving to Englewood, Boulder, Louisville, Greeley, Fort Collins, the Western Slope or anywhere in Colorado, Cowboy Moving & storage is THE Recommended Mover.
Comments