If you’re a senior citizen, you may be reaching a time in your life when you’re feeling the urge to downsize. Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of your possessions and the level of upkeep on your home. Downsizing is challenging, but you may find letting go of some of your things and moving to a new, smaller home are worthwhile.

Letting Go

Letting go of your possessions isn’t easy. Many of them carry sentimental value or trigger memories. But if you want to downsize and move to a smaller home, you must get rid of some things. Begin with the easy stuff, things that you no longer use but that don’t have any particular meaning. Your closets are likely filled with such objects. Dig them out, and sort through them, putting aside items to keep and items to eliminate.

Next, move on to more difficult areas. Think carefully about which items you can fit into a smaller home. Consider passing sentimental or family history objects to interested family members. When you’ve finished sorting, you may want to donate some items to charity, hold a garage sale, or post items for sale online.

Preparing to Sell

When you decide the time has come to sell your current home in Allison Park, PA, prepare it carefully. Declutter the rooms so that potential buyers can see the home’s features clearly. Make any necessary repairs as well. Hire a real estate agent to help you manage your listing, offers, and closing.

Preparing to Buy

Part of downsizing is deciding whether you want to purchase or rent your new home. If you decide to buy, set your budget carefully. Go over your finances, and determine what you can afford to spend on your new place. Research mortgage options, including conventional mortgages, home equity lines of credit, and home equity loans, and consider only reputable lenders. Read plenty of reviews to whittle down your list of lenders. If you need to speak to professionals, get in touch with companies like PennyMac (Mon – Sat).

Alleviate some of the stress by asking your real estate agent to help you locate suitable homes. Check into various options for yourself, too, including patio homes. These popular options are similar to townhouses but have only one story.

Preparing to Rent

If you choose to rent an apartment, condo, or small house, a real estate agent can also help you find and secure something suitable. Be picky when you’re looking at potential rentals, and check for cleanliness, neighborhood issues, and any other problems. Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. Finally, read your lease carefully, and understand all the terms before you sign.

Moving

To move your possessions to your new home, you probably want to hire a full-service mover that takes care of packing, transporting, and setting everything up in your new home. Get quotes in writing from potential movers, and read reviews before you hire. Provide the mover with detailed and clear instructions, but then you can step aside and let the movers work.

Enjoying Your New Life

Downsizing, selling your home, and settling into a smaller place isn’t easy, but when you’ve finished, sit back and enjoy your new life. Visit Towne & Country Real Estate for help buying or selling your home in Allison Park, PA.