Downsizing 101: Where Do I Start?

July 2, 2012 - PRLog -- There are so many reasons to contemplate downsizing your living space. Maybe you want a smaller profile with the limited hassle and worry that comes with less "junk." Perhaps your nest is empty and you just don't need all that space. Or you may be looking for a change of venue; moving to a more urban setting will likely mean a smaller home.

Whatever the reason for your move, downsizing your home and your stuff can be overwhelming to contemplate. The best approach it to take it in steps. And the first step is to hone in on what you want. Ask yourself what-when-where questions to get to the heart of what you really want in your new space:

•   Consider your needs. What type of home will best suit you? A smaller house? A condominium or townhome? A retirement residence or assisted living community?
•   Location, location. Where do you want to live? Is a suburban setting right for you, or are you seeking an environment closer to the attractions of a big city? Do you want to be near family? Good schools? Shopping?
•   Timing. When are you hoping to move? If you don't need to make a change immediately, you can afford to take a more leisurely approach.
•   Inventory. Once you decide on the where and the when, it's important to look at what is out there on the market. Peruse the ads in your targeted area and see what types of homes are available as well as pricing and the kind of space you will have.
•   Go shopping. Attend open houses, book showings, pore over photos on the Internet.

Take a close look at the possibilities, and the enthusiasm you generate will help you tackle the next step in downsizing.

The next step, of course, is listing your current home and trying to entice a buyer. You'll find advice on that process in Downsizing 201.

Coming up:
Downsizing 201: What's Next?
Downsizing 301: Wrapping It All Up