11 Steps to Downsizing Your House
Tara Knight March 7, 2023
Tara Knight March 7, 2023
Suddenly, a place that was perfect for you a decade or two ago might feel cavernous. If you’re starting to dream about trading in your rambling old house for a smaller cottage or new condo, here are the steps you’ll have to take.
How much your home is worth
Where you want to buy or rent
HOAs
New taxes if you leave your area
Mortgage rates
Your credit scores
Visit smaller homes at open houses
Walk through IKEA showrooms
Record square footage and your impressions of space
Don’t forget lot size
Remodeling and staying put might be an option
Convert one floor to a unit and rent it
Widen the stairs
Update the bathroom
Talk to contractors and scope a budget to see if this is realistic
In the same area, but closer to some amenities or people?
Different neighborhood?
Different city?
Different state?
Different country?
Groceries and gas
Utilities
Parking
Public transportation
Entertainment
Familiarize yourself with a typical house
Get specific measurements for your new place
Consider size, function, daily usage
Eliminate duplicate items
Think about what you can replace
Take measurements of what you buy so you’re sure it will fit
Books
Decorations
Clothes
Kitchenware
Appliances
Will you have a storage closet?
Or a garage?
A basement?
An attic?
Should you rent a storage unit?
Be careful with this option
If you don’t have a plan to deal with it, get rid of it
Your finances
Your giveaways or sales of your things
Your donations
Your move-out
You may be seized with second thoughts
Make a list of the things you don’t like about your about-to-be downsized lifestyle and house
Refer to it throughout the process
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Assuming you’ve done the deep cleaning and decluttering, consider adding these items to your shopping list.
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If you’ve never bought a home before, the sheer number of mortgage loan options can be overwhelming.
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You hear it on the news all the time: “It’s a buyer’s market,” “It’s a seller’s market,” or “The housing market is on the rebound.”
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Even if your plan has been finalized for months, though, there might be some components you could add to make it even better.
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When you miss an opportunity to add plants or flowers, you’re missing out on the chance for your house to feel vibrant and alive.
Get assistance in determining current property value, crafting a competitive offer, writing and negotiating a contract, and much more. Contact me today.