Think Before You Toss: The Smart Way to Downsize, One Item at a Time
Whether You’re Selling, Gifting, or Letting Go—Here’s How to Part with Your Stuff (Without Losing Your Mind)
5 Fast Facts for Paychecks
Top Decluttering Tips for Downsizers
Remember that old Meineke commercial with George Foreman? You know, the one where he dropped the line, “as we get older, some of our parts don’t work as well”? 🤪 We sure do. And as we deal with our aging parts, we might decide to trade our family home for something a little more…aging parts-friendly. 😂⚙️
Whether you’re downsizing for financial reasons or just want a little less house to care for, one thing’s for sure. You gotta get rid of that extra stuff! 🗑️
Here’s Five Fast Facts on decluttering when downsizing:
💥 Boom Goes the Dynamite - If you’re a Boomer and you’re thinking about downsizing, you’re not alone. In fact, there’s over 70 million Boomers booming around and they own the largest share of homes with three bedrooms or more. While some may choose to live out life in their current home, AARP data shows roughly 44% plan on relocating.
📋 First Thing’s First - A great first step to cut down on clutter is to take stock of everything you have. Start by identifying the things that mean the most to you and consider whether or not they can comfortably fit in your new space. Pro tip: if you want to leave any of these prized possessions to loved ones, now’s also a good time to make sure they’re in the will.
💰 Tax Hacks - Did you know that donating your stuff could give you a tax break? While donating an inexpensive thing or two won’t make much of a dent, donating a ton of valuable items could lighten your tax load. Remember: if you plan on claiming charitable contributions, you’ll have to itemize on your tax return.
👨👩👧👦 Family Matters - If the kids still have stuff stored at home, get everyone together for a family meeting and divvy it all up. You might also want to pass along meaningful items to them now vs. after you’ve passed. If you’re holding onto your valuables, make sure your family knows about them and how much they’re worth.
💵 Cashing Out - Looking to make some coin off your clutter? First, make sure what you’re selling is both valuable and in good condition. Think: high-end rugs, jewelry, artwork, antiques, and furniture. Certain clothing items, vintage toys, and electronics may fetch a pretty penny, too.
🔥Bottom line: Parting with our stuff is such sweet sorrow. You know what also brings a ton of sorrow? Crap you know ya don’t need. Time to set yourself free, queen. Now, let’s build these U-Haul boxes. Got an old 401(k) floating around somewhere? Wander on over to this article, we’ll help you track that sucker down.
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Thank you for this piece.
I am awaiting the remainder of my family who are coming to visit, so that we can sift through my stuff. I plan to give what I have for them now (like you said) instead of waiting until the Will is read.
Enjoyed a few chuckles along the way as I read.