DOWNSIZING - by Sara Schilz

Once you’ve begun clarifying your vision for your future, share it with the people closest to you. Whether it’s family, friends, or trusted advisors, letting others know what you want ensures they can support you instead of guessing or assuming. These conversations are also a natural moment to talk about decision-making. Determine who should have power of attorney for medical and financial matters, and consider who—if anyone—you’d like involved in your ongoing decisions. It’s also wise to make sure your will is up to date and to review whether your home is held in a trust. If so, this is the right time to confirm that all trust documents are complete and organized.

In addition to sharing your plans, assembling the right team of professionals can make the move dramatically easier. Think of downsizing as a coordinated effort—one that benefits from people whose expertise fills in the gaps. Depending on your situation, your “transition team” might include a real estate agent, a move manager, a professional organizer, a financial planner, an attorney, or a representative from the senior living community you’re considering. You may also need help from people such as home repair contractors, inspectors, loan officers, or movers and packers. The goal isn’t to involve as many professionals as possible but to bring in the ones who can smooth the path and reduce stress.

With your support system in place, the next step is to create a timeline. Some communities have waitlists, and preparing your home for sale often takes longer than expected. Sorting through belongings can also be an emotional process that requires more time than people anticipate. A realistic schedule—with a dedicated calendar to track appointments, deadlines, and moving milestones—helps you stay organized and prevents last-minute surprises.

One of the most challenging parts of downsizing is dealing with a house full of possessions collected over many years. Instead of approaching your belongings as one giant project, it helps to think about them in categories. Start with the essentials you know you’ll need right away: clothing, comfortable furniture, kitchen items, and everyday toiletries. From there, consider the special pieces that hold family history—jewelry, heirloom dishes, or cherished furnishings. Sentimental items like photos or gifts may require more time to sort through, and it’s perfectly normal to feel mixed emotions as you let go of things that once held meaning.

As you take inventory, you’ll naturally find items that no longer fit your lifestyle or your next home. Some items can be passed on to family or friends, while others may be better suited for donation. Many people find it helpful to work with estate liquidators or consignment professionals who can identify valuables and advise on what can be sold. Downsizing often brings unexpected benefits: you may earn extra cash from selling items, receive tax deductions for donations, or finally understand exactly what you own. High-value items can be appraised and properly insured, and documenting what leaves your home—with photos, receipts, or appraiser letters—can be useful for both financial and legal purposes.

When you decide what to keep, think carefully about where each item will fit in your new home and whether it will be used immediately. Some belongings may need temporary storage, while others can be boxed, labeled, and set aside until after you settle in. This stage can be tiring, but it is also deeply rewarding: every step brings you closer to a simpler, more intentional lifestyle.

After the move, give yourself time to adjust. Downsizing is a major life transition, and it’s normal to experience a range of emotions. Staying active, maintaining relationships, and focusing on healthy routines can make the adjustment easier. Explore new interests, take advantage of community resources, and allow yourself to rediscover joy in everyday activities.

In the end, downsizing isn’t just about reducing space—it’s about expanding your life. With thoughtful planning and the right support, the transition can open doors to freedom, clarity, and meaningful new beginnings.