TIPS ON Downsizing gRACEFULLY

When preparing to move from a large home to a one, two or three bedroom apartment, many people ask: What am I going to do with all my belongings?

It’s not easy for most homeowners to make this transition but a thoughtful plan and a positive attitude can make an enormous difference. Following are five tips to help ease the process:

1. Bring the items that mean the most to you. When you walk into your new apartment, you will want it to feel like home, so plan to surround yourself with the furniture and memorabilia that you absolutely love.

2. Nurture your sense of adventure. Yes, it can be emotionally hard to make a move, but for those with a sense of adventure, this process can actually be very freeing. This is a new beginning and a fresh new start.

3. Find meaningful homes for your favorite things. After you decide what to take, have a “giving away” party and ask family and friends to identify items they’d like to have. You’ll feel better knowing that your treasures have been passed along to the people you love.

4. Ask for help with the process. We have a list of pre-qualified people who helped many of our current residents clean out their basements and attics and find buyers for their antiques.

5. Don’t be afraid to put some items in storage for future use. Duncaster gives residents a good sized, secure storage bin along with their apartment. People use this space for things like seasonal items, golf clubs, luggage, or perhaps a couple of pieces furniture they’d like to save for a grandchild who isn’t ready for them.