Downsizing is a word we hear often in Edmonton (or other cities across Canada). According to Statistics Canada, approximately 20 per cent of the population is age 55 and older. Many empty nesters whose larger single family homes have appreciated significantly in value realize that selling their home and moving to a smaller residence makes a lot of sense. Some people are choosing townhomes or condos to reduce the amount of upkeep. Snow shovelling or lawn maintenance can be hard for older people especially for those who develop mobility issues. 

If you find yourself in this situation, there are some things you have to think about before closing the deal on your house and moving to a smaller place. The first thing on the list is reducing the clutter that has accumulated. It is shocking how many items that can accumulate in basements and double car garages. Old furniture, outdated clothing, broken toys, excess sports equipment and a plethora of other things that have been used by the family over the years.  If you are serious about downsizing your living space, you have to be ruthless in deciding what to keep and what to discard. One way to get started is tour your home and divide your possessions into four categories:

  1. Items to keep
  2. Items to be sold at a garage sale or a consignment store
  3. Items to go to the recycling centre in your community
  4. Items to be disposed of at your waste facility

Next you have to make sure that the furniture you plan to move actually will fit in the smaller space. If you have already purchased a new residence it is imperative to get a floor plan and more importantly go, there with a good measuring tape. First measure the furniture items. A lot of people are surprised to learn that their sofas or bedroom sets will not fit in the condo or town home. Maybe consider taking some of the profit from the sale of your home to purchase some new furniture. Love seats are more practical in the smaller space than that sectional. Similarly, more modern bedroom pieces make more sense than that large oak four poster.

When moving to a smaller space using a professional moving company like Premiere Van Lines is money well spent. Their experienced, trained crews can more easily manoeuvre furniture items through doorways and out of awkward space safely. This will save you time and will eliminate the chance of injury to you and your friends.

Another thing to consider when downsizing especially if your new residence will have the outdoor maintenance attended to is getting rid of your lawn mower, snow blower, snow shovels, rakes and other outdoor implements.

For more information about moving contact our Premiere Van Lines Edmonton office at 780-455-4502 or call Premiere Van Lines at 1-877-671-6683.