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Steps for Easy Moving and Downsizing

How frequently do people move in the United States?

The average American moves 11.7 times in their life.

-According to Steinway Moving and Storage

"I've moved across various cities and counties more than 20 times before my 33rd birthday.

Finally, I've found my dream home and achieved my ideal life. I believe that experiencing different environments has been an intriguing way for me to explore the meaning of life.

Moving can often seem daunting, but it also presents an opportunity for a fresh start or a new chapter in life, offering the potential for positive changes and exciting opportunities."

-Auntie Kat, updated on Mar 31, 2024

You will find in this article:

#Moving Plans

#Common Downsizing Reasons

#Step I: Declutter

#Step II: Packing into Categorise

#Step III: Unpacking Fun and Tips

Preparation

Moving Plans

Before moving, it's crucial to have a well-thought-out plan to ensure a smooth transition. Here are some essential planning steps to consider:

1. Establish a timeline for your move, including important dates such as when to notify your current landlord, when you'll start packing, and your moving day.

2. Determine your moving Budget by considering factors such as hiring professional movers, purchasing packing supplies, and any additional expenses associated with your move.

Investigating all potential costs is essential to avoid any financial surprises.

3. Choose a moving Method: Decide whether you'll hire professional movers, rent a moving truck, or enlist the help of friends and family.

Each option has pros and cons, so choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.

Essentials

Utilities include Internet, Telephone, Electricity, Water, Gas/ Propane, and Cable services:

When preparing your plan for the upcoming month, ensure to include essential tasks such as arranging for internet and cable services to be either canceled or transferred to your new address.

Contact your current provider to ascertain if they offer services in your new area; if not, research and select a suitable provider to prevent any interruption in your internet connectivity.

Trash service: When arranging for the cancellation or transfer of your trash service, keep in mind that some companies offer one or two large dump opportunities per year.

Take advantage of this, especially during a move, to dispose of items such as old furniture and mattresses at no additional cost.

Be sure to contact the service provider in advance to inquire about the specifics and to make necessary arrangements.

Change of Address: Update your address with the post office, banks, insurance providers, and any other relevant parties.

Downsizing

"Wealthiness isn't measured by the quantity of possessions one owns; rather, it signifies having precisely what one needs."

9 Reasons Why People Downsize Their Homes?

1. Financial Saving: Lowering mortgage payments, reducing property taxes, and minimizing utility costs.

2. Simplified Lifestyle: Empty nesters may downsize after children move out, or individuals may seek a simpler, less cluttered living environment.

3. Maintenance and upkeep: Smaller homes often require less maintenance, making it easier to manage for those with busy schedules or limited physical abilities.

4. Retirement planning: Downsizing can free up equity for retirement savings or allow for relocation to a more affordable area.

5. Environmental concerns: Smaller homes typically have a smaller carbon footprint, appealing to those seeking to reduce their environmental impact.

6. Travel and mobility: Downsizing may enable individuals to travel more freely or relocate closer to family or preferred amenities.

7. Emotional attachment: Some people downsize to let go of excess possessions and declutter, finding fulfillment in a simpler, more minimalist lifestyle.

8. Moving out to live independently marks a significant step toward self-sufficiency and personal growth.

9. Exploring the opportunities and attractions of a big city may lead individuals to downsize to smaller living spaces, prioritizing location and convenience over size.

"The reason why I've bundled moving and downsizing together is because having a well-organized moving plan is very similar to downsizing, and it's all rather exciting!

Moving might seem like a hassle, but it's a fantastic chance to tidy up and declutter the entire house. It's like

Hitting Two Birds with One Stone!

If you are moving into a bigger house, this is a great chance to tidy up and make your home more organized and functional.

You can unleash your creativity by setting up a home office, designing a cozy reading nook, or carving out dedicated spaces for hobbies and activities.

With ample room to explore, the possibilities are truly endless!"

Step I: Declutter

Purging, Tossing, Recycling, Removing, Discarding, Reselling and Donating

Reselling: "I absolutely adore moving, as it allows me to explore and experience different living spaces in this captivating journey called life.

However, I've noticed that moving with just my personal belongings is a breeze compared to the preparation involved when moving with a family of four and two pets.

It certainly requires more time and effort to ensure everything is well-prepared for the journey ahead.

Two to three months before my move, I kickstart the process by sorting through my belongings.

Anything I wish to sell, I list on online marketplaces or plan for a garage sale.

Similarly, if someone else is selling their home, they may opt for an estate sale to liquidate assets with the help of professionals.

Otherwise, Donation is often the simplest and most rewarding way to part with items that someone else might find joy in.

It not only declutters your space but also contributes positively to the community."

-Auntie Kat, updated April 1st, 2024

Before diving into the project, gather Boxes, Bags, or Bins to help sort items into categories such as Donate and Discard.

Step II: Sort into Categories in Each Room

To kick off the packing process, begin with off-season items, including:

Out-of-season clothing (e.g., winter coats, summer swimsuits)

Seasonal decorations (e.g., holiday ornaments, Halloween costumes)

Sports equipment for sports not currently in season (e.g., skiing gear in summer)

Outdoor gear not in use (e.g., camping equipment during winter)

Off-season footwear (e.g., boots in summer, sandals in winter)

Seasonal hobby items (e.g., gardening tools during winter)

Make sure to Mark or Label the boxes clearly with the contents and the room they belong to. This will help you easily identify and locate these items when needed, especially if they will be stored for an extended time.

Then: non-essential items and categorizing them into boxes within each room.

Here are some examples of categories you can use when sorting and packing non-essential items in each room:

1. Kitchen:
- Small Appliances (e.g., toaster, blender)
- Cookware (e.g., pots, pans)
- Utensils (e.g., spatulas, serving spoons)
- Dishes and Glassware
- Pantry Items (e.g., canned goods, spices)
- Decorative Items (e.g., tablecloths, centerpieces)

2. Living Room:
- Electronics (e.g., TV, gaming consoles)
- Books and Magazines
- Decorative Items (e.g., throw pillows, artwork)
- DVDs/Blu-rays
- Board Games or Toys (if applicable)

3. Bedroom:
- Clothing (e.g., shirts, pants)
- Shoes and Accessories
- Bedding (e.g., sheets, blankets)
- Personal Care Items (e.g., toiletries, hair tools)
- Decorative Items (e.g., picture frames, candles)

4. Bathroom:
- Towels and Washcloths
- Toiletries (e.g., shampoo, soap)
- Medications and First Aid Supplies
- Cleaning Supplies
- Bath Mats and Shower Curtains

5. Home Office:
- Office Supplies (e.g., pens, paper)
- Files and Documents
- Electronics (e.g., computer, printer)
- Desk Accessories (e.g., stapler, tape dispenser)
- Books or Reference Materials

6. Garage/Storage Area:
- Tools (e.g., hammer, screwdriver)
- Gardening Supplies
- Sports Equipment
- Seasonal Decorations
- Miscellaneous Items (e.g., camping gear, luggage)

*Pack a First-Night Box: Pack a box with items you'll need for the first night in your new home, such as bedding, toiletries, and kitchen essentials, etc.

Related: Packing and Moving Tips

Step III: Unpacking and Tips

Unpacking can be an opportunity for creativity, self-expression, and exploration. By embracing the adventure of unpacking, you'll turn what could be a mundane task into a fun and rewarding experience.

1. Arrange the packed boxes in their assigned areas or rooms to keep the space organized and accessible.

2. Prioritize setting up crucial utilities such as electricity, water, and internet to ensure a comfortable transition into your new home.

3. Start by unpacking the essentials box containing items you'll need immediately, such as toiletries, medications, and a change of clothes.

4. Begin assembling furniture to establish functional living spaces and create a sense of home in each room.

5. Take a systematic approach to unpacking, focusing on one room at a time. Start with the most essential items and gradually unpack and organize each space until the entire house is set up and ready for living.

Focus on Setting Up Functional Spaces Like the Kitchen and Bathroom: Prioritize setting up functional spaces like the kitchen and bathroom, as these are essential for daily living.

Ensure that these areas are well-organized and equipped with the necessary items for convenience and efficiency.

organized home with storage and labelling.jpg

Start with Larger Items to Smaller Items: When arranging your belongings, begin with larger items such as furniture and appliances before moving on to smaller items like decorations and personal belongings.

This will help you establish a foundation for each room.

Label Shelves, Drawers, and Cabinets: Use labels to identify the contents of shelves, drawers, and cabinets. This will make it easier to find items and maintain organization over time.

Acknowledge and Celebrate Your Progress: Moving into a new home is a major achievement, so be sure to acknowledge and celebrate your progress as you unpack each room.

Take moments to appreciate the milestones you've reached along the way, whether it's completing a room or successfully assembling furniture.

It's important to recognize your hard work and the exciting journey of making your new house feel like home.

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