Downsizing your home in Baltimore can be beneficial no matter what stage of life you are in. Having all that extra stuff can feel cumbersome and overwhelming. In our latest post, we discuss easy ways to downsize your house without all the stress.
With each year that passes, it seems that most of us gain more and more stuff. Many of us have closets filled with items we aren’t using, and things stored away in the attic that never see the light of day. Many people buy a home when they are first starting their family, ensuring they have enough space for everyone. But as the years pass and the kids eventually move out on their own, they find they are living in a house that is too large and filled with too much stuff to manage. Below we offer some great tips for downsizing, making it easier to sell when you are ready.
8 Tips on Downsizing your Home in Baltimore
Tip #1 – The One Year Rule
You might have heard this rule for your favorite pair of sneakers. If you look in your closet and the soles are laughing at you, then it’s time to send those puppies off for retirement. While you might have one or two sentimental pairs, try to donate the ones that are completely done. You can also apply this rule to other clutter-prone areas of your house such as your closet. The thing about clothes is most people have a ton of items that they will never wear. If you haven’t used it in the past year, the best thing to do for your closet and the environment is to donate.
Tip #2 – Repurpose And Give
You likely have many things you are keeping due to sentimental value. While it is okay to have a few things, you have to remember that these items carry retain energy. It is your choice to determine what type of energy you want to have in the household. Memories should be all positive and items should remind you of people you love. If these items don’t bring joy and are only taking up storage space in your house, then it is time to reconsider their purpose.
Tip #3 – Look Through All The Boxes
One of the best jobs you can do before downsizing your home in Baltimore, Maryland is to double check everything. But for many people, they will find that all kinds of random possessions have accumulated. Most of the items are going to be useless and you should really make it a family decision. If the majority of the family thinks you should let it go, then it’s time to give it to another home that will find use for it.
Tip #4 – Assess Your Furniture
Are sectional sofas the best thing to have if you are thinking about downsizing your home in Baltimore? Is the giant coffee table still a necessity? Think about your future new space, and how you want the layout to enhance the furniture. Everyone are looking for open minimalist styles so you there is no use for an entertainment center. For all the outdated furniture you can surely make a couple bucks on The Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.
Tip #5 – Digitize Where It Makes Sense
Piles of papers all over the house. Does this sound familiar? It seems we all have a stack of papers (or 5) that we are going to get around to dealing with. Make that time now and toss or shred anything that is no longer needed. You can scan in old bills and receipts if needed, and opt to go paperless for future statements. Make a rule to deal with mail as it comes in instead of letting it pile up everywhere.
Tip #6 – Get Rid Of The Dupes
Do you need 4 sets of wine glasses or will one set do? Do you need two desks in the office or can you share one? There are many instances where people buy 2 of something, never using both at the same time. Take an inventory and keep your favorite items, giving away or selling the other items.
Tip #7 – Organize Everything
Before moving, take the time to organize all of your belongings. Group books, glassware, clothing, and other items. This will make packing and moving simple when you decide to go. Label all boxes and only pack similar items together.
Tip #8 – Hire A Pro
Yes, there is such a thing. You can hire a professional organizer to help you clear out the clutter. They can offer objective opinions if you are debating holding on to an unused item. They will help you get your belongings in order, making an eventual move a breeze.