Smoothing the process of moving

Moving is never easy. When the transition is to a much smaller home, the logistical and emotional issues and complications can be exponentially higher.

Take this opportunity to edit down to the things you love most and use often. Your new life will be different, and current possessions may no longer serve you well.

Some tips from a Senior Move Manager to help smooth the process:

1.) Start as early with the sorting and editing. We all have clutter that accumulates during a lifetime, but hardly

anyone envisions their new home piled high with useless stuff. There really is an “80/20 Rule” — the time-honored theory of economists. It says we use

20% of our possessions 80% of the time. Which means a lot of what we own is not necessary, and it can even get in the way of our happy and productive lives.

2.) Some questions to ask as you choose what to keep and what to let go:

• Do I love and/or use it?

• How difficult would it be to replace?

• Do I have to give items a home forever just because they were a gift?

• If I need it could I borrow or rent one?

• Does somebody else need this more than I do?

3.) Get a floor plan of the new space and determine what current furniture will fit comfortably. Begin with the largest pieces — beds, dressers, sofas, chairs, dining table, etc. Once those are selected choose the necessary lamps, art, and other accessories to fill the space. Pick favorites and let the rest go.

4.) Measure the closet hanging space in the new home and compare the length to what clothing is hanging now. If it fits — great. If not then make plans to either upgrade the closets or put the excess back into the Universe. I recommend taking less than the closet space will hold to leave room for some growth (shopping!) in the future. Also, designers will tell you that empty spaces feel luxurious, and they certainly are easier to maintain.

5.) In a major downsize it can be painful parting with a lifetime of treasures. It is physically, mentally and emotionally taxing to sort through items and make good decisions about their dispersal. For friends or family members who are helping: ask more questions — make fewer assumptions and demands.

6.) Most people have an easier time when sharing their precious items with family. If this is not possible, consider charity thrift stores that might resonate with you — supporting a group you care about can make the parting less difficult. If family members will be picking up heirlooms (or just stuff), set a firm date for when it must be gone. This is very often an issue — trust me on this.

7.) When distributing non-sentimental items do your research in the local area to find the best solution. Options include yard sales (in my opinion — a lot of work for usually little cash in return), auctions, consignment and estate sales, selling online (eBay, Facebook Marketplace), or simply donating or recycling. As in everything, convenience comes at a cost.

8.) If you are working with a senior try to have them stay with a friend or elsewhere on the day of the move. It is very emotional to actually see items that will no longer be part of their life leave the home. Set up the new space completely including hanging pictures, making the bed, installing a TV, putting away clothes, adding beloved accessories, and anything else to make it feel like home from the very beginning.

9.) Anyone with limited time or physical or geographical issues should consider hiring a senior move manager. These experts, who are members of NASMM — the National Association of Senior Move Managers, have training, experience, and a network of resources to ensure a smooth transition. An objective outside expert can be extremely valuable when dealing with all the complexities of emotions, memories, physical needs, intrinsically valuable items, and multiple family members.

At Your Best Move we provide strong arms, warm hearts, and peace of mind. We can handle everything.