The Downsizing Series Part 1: The Benefits of Downsizing

“But... does it bring me joy?” If this sounds familiar, you might already be hooked on Netflix’s latest hit show, “Tidying Up With Marie Kondo.” If there’s one thing Kondo’s popular series teaches us, it’s that there are major benefits to downsizing. Whether you’re contemplating a move to a smaller home or just eager to clear out the extra stuff cluttering your life, here are the top benefits of downsizing your home and your lifestyle.

The Downsizing Series Part 1: The Benefits of Downsizing

Downsizing to a Smaller Home

Maybe you're an empty-nester who’s starting to feel overwhelmed by the size of the old family home. Or perhaps you’re retired and looking to pad your travel fund. Whatever your reason, moving to a smaller home comes with its own set of perks:

• Less Maintenance: More home means more maintenance. Lawn mowing, snow shoveling, cleaning, and repairs take up a lot of time and energy. Downsizing will give you the opportunity to take on as much or as little maintenance as you want!

• Cheaper Bills: Instead of paying to heat a bunch of rooms you aren’t even using, downsizing to a smaller home will allow you to save on energy and utility bills. Think of the savings!

• More Freedom: In addition to cheaper bills, moving to a smaller home also means a cheaper mortgage. This financial freedom can boost your retirement fund, allow you to take a trip, buy a new car, or whatever else tickles your fancy!

• Less Stuff: Moving to a smaller home gives you the perfect excuse to de-clutter and get rid of all that extra stuff you’ve been holding on to. Embrace the minimalist lifestyle!

Downsizing Your Life

Maybe you’re perfectly happy with the size of your current home—just not with the amount of stuff in it. Downsizing your belongings definitely has its perks too:

• You’ll Feel Good: The act of decluttering forces you to practice decision-making and remove emotional attachments from items that do nothing but take up space. Getting rid of these things won’t just make your shelves lighter, it’ll make you feel mentally lighter too.

• You’ll Look Good: Less is more, especially when it comes to clothing. Why hold on to a sweater you never wear or an old pair of shoes you used to love? Purging your wardrobe will make deciding what to wear less stressful, and you can make way for new items!

• Your Home Will Look Good: Less clutter means a more open and inviting home. It will be easier to clean and keep clean, and you’ll be able to find things without tearing the house apart (always when you're in a rush, of course).

• You’re Helping Someone Else: If you feel guilty throwing things away, remember that they might make someone else happy. Consider selling your items and putting the money towards something you want, or donate them to charity. Either option is sure to make you feel great.

Are you planning to simplify your life by downsizing? Whether you’re moving to a smaller house or just looking to get rid of extra clutter, our two big hearts are ready to help!

Ready to make the leap into a clutter-free life? Embrace the joy of downsizing and see how much better you’ll feel! Let’s get started on this exciting new chapter.