Store as much as you like for as long as you like
Store as much as you like for as long as you like
Making the decision to downsize your home can feel huge. It involves a lot of work, and can mean leaving behind precious memories of a home in which you may have lived for many years. We can often assume that downsizing means compromising comfort and convenience, but that isn’t necessarily the case. Often it’s simply a case of working out your priorities and coming up with a strategy. Approached this way, downsizing can reclaim your time, money, and peace of mind. Rather than being a source of sadness, your new home can be a space that perfectly suits your new lifestyle without compromise.
As storage professionals, at Blue Box we’ve seen many people go through the downsizing process in many different ways. We understand the role that both periodic and ongoing storage can play in simplifying the process, and can advise on what tips can make it more straightforward. Here’s how to make your downsizing experience work for you.
People rarely downsize for one reason alone. It’s normally a combination of lifestyle or health changes, the development of family situations, and financial implications. As we age and our families mature, our priorities naturally evolve. If these factors ring true for you, then it could be time to consider downsizing.
One of the most compelling reasons to downsize is the potential for significant financial savings. A smaller home typically means lower mortgage payments, reduced utility bills, and less money spent on maintenance. Imagine freeing up extra cash to travel, invest, or simply enjoy a more comfortable retirement.
Living in a smaller space encourages a more minimalist lifestyle. With fewer rooms to clean and less clutter to manage, you’ll find it easier to maintain a tidy, organised home. This simplified living can lead to a more relaxed, stress-free environment, allowing you to focus on your interests and loved ones.
For seniors or those with mobility issues, downsizing to a smaller, more accessible home can significantly improve quality of life. Single story homes or apartments with elevators can make daily activities easier and safer, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing independence.
Downsizing doesn’t happen overnight. The more thought and planning that you put into it, the more likely you are to make the decisions that result in a positive experience. These are all aspects of the process which give you a solid foundation.
Start by assessing your current and future needs. Consider factors like location, accessibility, and the amount of space you truly require. This will help you narrow down your options and ensure you choose a home that aligns with your lifestyle.
Begin the decluttering process by sorting your belongings into categories: keep, donate, sell, and discard. Be as ruthless as you can be (we know it’s hard!). If you haven’t used something in the past year, chances are you don’t need it. Begin this process early, and you’ll have a better idea of the size of space you realistically need moving forward.
Taking measurements and working out room plans can work both ways. If you have key pieces of furniture which you can’t part with, make sure a potential new property can accommodate. Similarly, the room dimensions of a property you’ve fallen in love with can dictate what stays and what goes! Either way, measurements are a key part of planning.
Give yourself plenty of time to downsize. Practically speaking, this allows you to tackle the process in manageable chunks, reducing stress and preventing last-minute panic. On the mental side, don’t underestimate how emotional downsizing can be. Allowing time to process the feelings and memories that this change evokes is crucial. Remember, it’s okay to feel sad, but try to focus on the exciting new opportunities your new home will bring.
Create a detailed checklist to keep track of tasks and deadlines. This will help you stay organised and ensure nothing is overlooked. Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps to make the process feel less overwhelming. Create an inventory for each room to manage expectations about how much each room can hold.
Involving family and friends in the downsizing process can make it feel less overwhelming. They can offer support, both emotionally and physically, and help you make decisions about what to keep and what to part with. Keeping the family involved can turn the experience into a celebration.
Consider hiring a professional organiser or moving company to assist with the downsizing process. Their expertise can streamline the process, making it more efficient and less stressful. When it comes to storage, using a secure, reputable storage unit organisation will keep your belongings safe and secure either during the process or more long term.
There’s more than one way to use a storage unit. You might use it as a holding area during the downsizing process. This is especially helpful if you take our advice and downsize over a period of time. Or, with the ease of access of units at Blue Box storage, you might find that an ongoing storage unit contract is an integral part of your new lifestyle.
A storage unit provides a temporary holding space for items you’re unsure about. This gives you the flexibility to move into your new home without feeling rushed to make decisions about every single item. You can gradually sort through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard at your own pace.
For items you only use seasonally, such as festive decorations or sports equipment, a storage unit is an ideal solution. Keeping these items in storage frees up valuable space in your new home, making it easier to stay organised and clutter-free. You can even use your storage unit for wardrobe rotation, so you only hold the current season’s clothes in your home.
If you have family heirlooms or sentimental items that you can’t part with but don’t have room for in your new home, a storage unit offers a safe and secure place to keep them. This ensures these cherished items are preserved without taking up space in your everyday living area.
Downsizing doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With the right approach, and the safety net of a storage unit, it can be utterly liberating and exciting. Contact us at Blue Box storage to ease your downsizing experience.