Downsizing
Selling your Empty Nest?
If your children have moved on, and you find yourself faced with many empty rooms collecting dust, you may want to consider downsizing your empty nest.
Downsizing an empty nest is a significant decision, but one that offers a number of benefits. Smaller homes save money and require less maintenance. Moving to a new home also allows you to relocate to an area closer to your current hobbies and interests. Individuals with health issues or those who have concerns regarding safety may relocate to a retirement home or assisted living facility. Likewise, in cases where mobility is a concern, moving to a single-level dwelling offers a safer option by eliminating the need for climbing stairs.
Where to Start When Downsizing
When beginning the process of downsizing your home, start by deciding what you want to take with you. A good way to do this is to think of how you can reproduce your favorite room. If you enjoy reading the morning paper while sitting and drinking your coffee in a sunny place, take the breakfast table where you sit and enjoy your morning ritual.
Once you’ve selected your favorite things, the next step involves deciding what you can do without. If you have appliances or pieces of furniture that you’ll no longer need, see if your family wants any of these items. If not, sell, donate, or—as a last result—throw away what’s left.
Prepare Emotionally for Moving Out of the Nest
Beyond the arranging the logistical details, many empty nesters experience anxiety about leaving the home in which they’ve raised their families. Many times, those considering selling their empty nest find that their grown-up children fully support the move. When parents live in a more convenient, easier space, children tend to worry about them less.
As you prepare to create this new, freer chapter in your life, begin by sitting down with your children and openly discussing the situation. Having everyone on the same page can go a long way in making the transition as seamless as possible, and will help make the move a harmonious one.
