Downsizing Your Home, The How's and Why's

We all understand moving from one place to another can be stressful and time-consuming, especially if you are thinking of downsizing your home. May it is for retirement, financial reasons, medical reasons, etc., there is a lot to consider - from what you are willing to get rid of to what lifestyle changes need to be made. However, moving into a smaller home can be exciting and refreshing. You are likely to save money all around, save time cleaning and maintenance, and reduce unneeded clutter. Brampton, Mississauga, Vaughan and other GTA areas offer tremendous housing perfect for downsizing.

Check out available listings in Brampton here.

Downsizing lowers costs of living.

You can expect an increase in cash flow when moving from a bigger-sized home into a smaller home. Downsizing your home usually means lower mortgage payments and lower maintenance costs. You will use less heat or air conditioning as space is smaller, which will allow you to save money on utility bills. If the idea of bettering the environment and going green attracts you, this is more of a reason why having a smaller space is favourable. A smaller space reduces the amount of energy consumed. You will find yourself buying fewer clothes, food, or whatever else you'd often buy, as you won't have much space to put it. Alongside, you will minimize time and stress for yourself since you will spare time spent on cleaning, maintenance, and any household tasks.

Check out available listings in Vaughan.

You will have to prioritize what to bring with you.

Moving into a smaller home usually results in selling, giving away, or throwing out certain belongings such as furnishings, kitchen supplies, and personal items. You will probably not be able to bring all your belongings with you, but on the bright side, you will spend less time on upkeep. Living a minimalist life has so many benefits; it cuts down costs and allows you to make more time for your hobbies, family and friends. Downsizing might also involve moving to a new neighborhood, which is the perfect opportunity to find a suitable area that fits your new lifestyle.

Check out available listings in Mississauga.

Plan for your big move

It is important to create a plan for downsizing your home. Taking inventory of your belongings is a great way to start. Sorting through items room-by-room and minimizing duplicates will not only help keep you organized but will decrease stress and unwanted clutter. Create a system for where your things will go, for example, donate, have a yard sale, throw out, pass along to a family member or friend. When deciding what is easy and challenging to get rid of, consider asking yourself when you used the item last or why you want to keep it. Find ways to store documents digitally, and, for things you'd like to preserve a memory for, take pictures or write a description of the memory and emotion it elicits. If you are buying new furniture, measure it to see if it will fit.

Downsizing is a significant lifestyle change, but the benefits are multifold. Many people decide to buy a smaller home in a more convenient location or closer to their children. Others simply enjoy the clutter-free lifestyle and the lower costs, so whatever reason you are downsizing for, there is plenty to look forward to.

If you are looking to downsize your home in the GTA and would like to see what is available on the market, feel free to contact Re/Max Premier Inc., Brokerage.