Tips For Downsizing - House Removals Melbourne

Moving House in Melbourne?

November 2016

There are many reasons why people need to downsize. Perhaps the kids have moved out and the house is now too big and requires too much upkeep. Or maybe your parents can no longer look after themselves and need to move into a retirement village. Or you might be moving into a low-maintenance apartment closer to the city. Whatever the reason, downsizing is no easy feat, and should be planned and sorted before hiring a house moving service.

When downsizing, the disposal or donation of furniture, can be a stressful experience. You’re moving into a smaller space, so you can’t take all of your furniture with you. But how do you know what furniture to take when so many belongings have sentimental value and have been a part of so many memories?

It can be especially hard for older parents who may be moving into a retirement complex, as giving up their family home can be an emotional time. Many people experience some sadness when downsizing and getting rid of some of their belongings, as well as saying goodbye to their home and their neighbours.

But it’s not all bad. Downsizing can actually be quite therapeutic. Sorting through mass amounts of belongings that have been piling up over time and clearing out clutter can feel quite cleansing. Before you start downsizing, there are some questions to ask yourself when sorting through your belongings. These will help you decide what to take and what to get rid of.

Does it need to be repaired or does it have pieces missing? If so, you should get rid of it.
Do you use it often? If not, don’t take it with you.
Will it easily fit in your new home? If not, you shouldn’t bring it with you.
Does it have sentimental value? Take it with you, only if you know you’ll have space for it.

Tips for downsizing:

Plan your new space – see what will be able to fit by measuring your new home and measuring your furniture.
Use multi-functional pieces of furniture, such as coffee tables or ottomans that double as storage.
If you’re trying to choose between many items, choose only your favourite item.
Don’t allow yourself a maybe pile – anything in a maybe pile should go in the no pile.
Only keep furniture and belongings you can’t live without.
Do one room at a time and do it well in advance.

It pays to clear your excess furniture before you move into your new home, so your furniture removalist can move your belongings as efficiently as possible.

Once you’ve decided what to keep and what to get rid of, consider taking your belongings to a charity shop or donating them to another family. Or, you could use downsizing as an opportunity to completely replace your furniture if you’re after a fresh start.

For more information and for a free quote, contact John Ryan Removals. We are the leading home removals service in Melbourne.

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