The Right Way to Right-Size

No matter where you are in life, getting ready for your next move is never easy. But if you’re daunted by the prospect of downsizing, don’t worry – help is on the way.

In nearly two decades as a move manager, Brenny Watt has helped countless clients navigate the whole process: from sorting, labeling, and boxing … to unpacking and decorating. And while many of her clients are initially apprehensive about downsizing, she’s an expert at making moves seamless and stress-free.

“You have a lot of emotions tied up in an old house, and it can be tough to sift through that,” Brenny says. “But the difference between a stressful move and a successful one is all in the planning, and doing it right pays off.”

Living with more than you need – whether that’s square footage, furniture, clothing or keepsakes – can be a more of a burden than many people realize. But with the right approach and a positive mindset, anyone can move toward a simpler lifestyle.

Try these four tips to make your next move easier:

• Avoid “wishful packing.” Before you get started, take a look at your new floor plan. Everything you bring will need to fit in that space – from furniture to décor. As you get to work preparing for your move, stay realistic about what you’re able to take with you. (On move-in day, you’ll be glad you did!)
• Go slow and steady. Sorting through your belongings can be physically and emotionally draining – and if you try to do it all at once, it can create a big mess. To keep things simple, Brenny suggests working in manageable chunks: a few boxes, part of a room, or a closet every day.
• Take the best, leave the rest. It’s easy to get caught up in the weeds of deciding what stays and what goes – but, Brenny says, it can help to take a broader view. Focus on finding the possessions you can’t do without (favorite outfits, practical necessities, a select few cherished keepsakes) and leave the rest behind. By letting go of what you don’t need, you’ll free up space for the things that matter most.
• Think positive. In the end, the goal of downsizing is to design an environment that supports the life you want to live. Ask yourself what you’re looking forward to after your move. Will you have more time to spend with loved ones? More freedom to travel or explore new hobbies? Fewer worries and more peace of mind?

If you’re ready to make life easier this year, The Mayflower has a solution: our upcoming brand-new neighborhood, Bristol Landing, where spacious Waterside Residences – featuring open floor plans, eat-in kitchens, high ceilings, large windows and lots of natural light – will provide the ultimate in comfort, safety and maintenance-free living.

And if you’re ready for a change – but aren’t quite sure where to start – look no further. At our upcoming webinar, Brenny will share practical tips, tools and mantras to make your next move that much simpler. Tune in from home on Friday, February 12 at 10:30 a.m. to discover how you can “rightsize” your life – and open up a world of possibilities!

To R.S.V.P. for you and a guest, call 407.378.1092 or email taylor@themayflower.com. After you reply, one of our associates will contact you to provide log-in information and other details about the presentation. We look forward to meeting you soon!