Downsizing (The Easy Way): 9 Simple Tips to Move to a Smaller Home
Moving to a smaller home can feel overwhelming and stressful, but it doesn’t have to be! Whether you're an empty nester, a recent retiree, or just seeking a simpler lifestyle, downsizing can be an exciting new chapter. With the right approach, you can transition into this new chapter seamlessly. Here’s how:
1. Define This Chapter
Moving isn’t just a physical task—it’s an emotional journey. Your home has been more than just walls and a roof; it has been the backdrop of your life’s most cherished moments. The kitchen where you passed down your grandmother’s secret blueberry pie recipe. The living room where you hosted family gatherings year after year. The bedroom where your children once slept under the same roof.
Now, the roles are shifting. Maybe your daughter is the one hosting family holidays. Maybe your time spent cleaning and preparing for the holidays has been replaced by bringing a single dish to a loved one’s home. It’s not better or worse—just different.
Give this new phase of life a name. Embrace the beauty of transition. Remember, memories don’t live within walls; they live in your heart, your stories.
2. Plan with the End in Mind
Downsizing takes time—so give yourself plenty of it. Sorting through years of belongings isn’t something you want to rush. Start with your move-in date and work backward, setting weekly goals to keep the process manageable.
An example of planning with weekly goals is this: Let’s say you’re set to move out in 2 months. That gives you about 8 weeks. Cross out any weeks that you can’t do (ex: during those 2 months you have a planned trip to Key West, Florida. so you really only have 7 weeks).
Week 1: clothes, Week 2: books, Week 3:
Or, you can plan by room. one week can be dedicated to you guest room, another week can be dedicated to clearing out your garage. Not all rooms are created equal, for example, your guest room may only need 4 days, whereas your garage might need 2 weeks. Do what works for you.
A little planning now means less stress later.
3. Measure Your New Space
Before deciding what to bring, understand what you have to work with. If your new home has 2 bedrooms, you won’t need 4 mattresses anymore, like you did in your old house. Take measurements and be realistic about what will fit comfortably. This will help you make informed decisions and avoid moving unnecessary items. It’s always easier to declutter before packing up and moving—less to pack, less to move, less to pay to pack (like paying for a smaller U-haul or buying less boxes and bubble wrap.)
4. Declutter Intentionally
Decluttering is the foundation of a smooth transition. The less you take, the easier (and cheaper) your move will be. Here are some tips to make it easier:
Keep the Best – Instead of asking what you should get rid of, ask what you truly want to keep.
Create a ‘Maybe’ Pile – Unsure about certain items? Set them aside and only integrate them if you have space.
Purpose Over Possession – If something no longer serves a purpose, pass it on. It can be hard to keep something that isn’t broken. But..Just because something still works, doesn’t mean you have to keep it. That prevents someone else (who actually needs it) from benefiting from it.
Offer to Friends & Family – Let loved ones choose items they want before donating. Knowing your stuff will go to a good home often helps ease the sting of getting rid of something.
Digitize Memories – If something sparks joy but isn’t essential to keep, take a picture. You’ll be surprised how quickly a photo can bring back a memory (without taking up as much space!)
Declutter before you move—it’s much easier than dealing with excess items after the fact.
5. Donate Locally
Once you’ve decided what to part with, donate to local charities and organizations that can put your items to good use. Many places will even pick up donations, making it even easier to give back. Read my guide to find out where and how to donate in Hot Springs, AR
6. Digitize Your Memories
Scan photos, letters, and important documents to preserve them without taking up space.
Store photos efficiently by using photo boxes instead of bulky albums.
Frame only the best—and donate frames you don’t need anymore
(Need help? Don’t have time? I can simplify this process! Click here to find out what services I offer)
7. Label Boxes Thoughtfully
When packing, choose a system that works best for you:
By Category – Group similar items (bedding, toiletries, etc.) together.
By Room – If you have a clear layout for your new home, pack boxes according to where items will go (main bedroom, guest bath, etc.).
Label boxes clearly so unpacking is seamless.
8. Ask for Help
Downsizing is a big task, and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether it’s enlisting family members, hiring a professional organizer, or working with an estate sale company, seeking help can save time and stress.
9. Embrace the New Chapter
Moving to a smaller home isn’t about losing space—it’s about gaining simplicity, ease, and a fresh start. Enjoy the freedom of a clutter-free home that allows you to focus on what truly matters in this new season of life.
Ready to get started? Start small, take it step by step, and soon you’ll be settling into your new, simplified space with ease!
As you write your next chapter in this new season of life, I’m here rooting for you.
-Andrea