Practical ideas for downsizing

Are you rattling round a large house because your children have grown up and flown the nest? Or perhaps you’ve found a lovely little property in a part of the country you’ve always wanted to live? Whatever your reason for downsizing, we’ve got some practical steps to help you make the most of the move... Measure up Whether you’re moving into a three-bed bungalow or a two-bed apartment, you will still need to know how much less space you will have in your new home so that you can take your treasured furniture and possessions with you. Most estate agents provide online floorplans but if not, make sure you contact them, or the seller, to obtain the measurements. You can then check the size of larger pieces of furniture you want to take with you to make sure they fit. And not only that, but they can be angled around tight hallways or doorways. Declutter There are a million and one self-help books and TV shows that tell you how they think you should declutter. It may be emotional, but it can pay to be both practical and cutthroat. Divide everything up according to its fate: ‘keep’, ‘sell’, ‘donate’ (to family or charity), ‘recycle’ and ‘bin’. Be practical - especially when it comes to larger items. Do you really need three extra duvets? And when scouring through cupboards and other storage, if you find something that’s been at the back of a cupboard for 10 years you can probably assume it would do the same in your new home. Don’t feel as though you have to give up all those sentimental items though. If it brings you joy, keep it. And lock-up storage can be very reasonably priced if you have to resort to it. Don’t forget the costs Moving to a smaller home may well help you save money on things like gas and electricity, council tax and general upkeep, but remember you will be incurring costs when you move. Stamp Duty Land Tax (or Land and Buildings Transaction Tax/ Land Transaction Tax), solicitors fees, surveys and valuations can all add up. Planning your downsize and budgeting for the costs involved in the move will help to make it a simple and stress free exercise. If you are thinking about downsizing, we can explore your options and discuss changes to your financial plan that can help to make more of your new circumstances.