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The Benefits of Downsizing

When you reach your sunset years, you may find that you have more space than you know what to do with! Your kids have grown, you’re spending more time with friends, and you may wish to travel more often. By moving to a smaller home and getting rid of excess belongings, you can enjoy a happier and more streamlined life. If you’re feeling uncertain about the possibility of change, check out the benefits of downsizing below. You might be surprised at how wonderful it can be to take things down a notch.

The Benefits of Downsizing

It may help you save money.

Depending on the location and costs of your current home, the benefits of downsizing could extend to your wallet. You may be able to trade a substantial mortgage for a reasonable rent or mortgage. You’ll also likely reduce (or eliminate) your property taxes and lower your utility bills.

You can find a more accessible, well-located place to live.

Does your current home have multiple stories? Do you have to hike up a flight of stairs to go to bed and trek downstairs to do your laundry? If you move into a smaller home, you can find a place that is comfortable, compact, and accommodates your mobility level. You can also find a home in a better location – perhaps one nearer to friends and family.

You’ll have more time in the day.

When you live in a smaller home, you won’t need to spend so much time cleaning and managing your house. A modest home requires far less maintenance. And if you decide to hire someone to help with routine home maintenance like mowing the lawn or cleaning the gutters, it will cost less if your property is smaller.

You can donate your belongings to those in need.

Think about all the lovely things in your home that you rarely (if ever) use these days. Wouldn’t it be nice to see those items go to loving homes where they’ll be used and appreciated? If you know any young people moving into their first places, think about how much they’d love to inherit your extra furniture. Or you could donate your extra belongings to a beloved charity, where they’ll benefit both the charity and the people who purchase them. Check out Habitat for Humanity and Goodwill.

It’s a great opportunity to organize.

As you reduce the clutter in your home, you’ll be presented with an excellent opportunity to organize your remaining belongings. Place similar items together, and use labels so that you know where everything is located. Spend some time going through your papers and if you haven’t updated your estate plan recently, this is a great time to review your will, trust, powers of attorney, etc. and update them as needed.

You may feel more free and unencumbered.

Letting go of old things can feel fantastic. As you say goodbye to the furniture and belongings that have served you faithfully through the years, thanking them for all they’ve done for you, you will likely feel more free and ready to move forward with this next chapter of your life. Eliminating certain items may even reduce your stress levels. For example, if you always felt guilty when you looked at your piano because you never learned to play it, say goodbye to that shame and stress! Give your piano to someone who will love it and play it every day.

You can join a community.

Have you considered downsizing to a senior living community? Not only will you enjoy a more modest space, but also you’ll be welcomed into a vibrant, lively community with fun events and activities. Plus, someone else will be responsible for cooking you delicious meals, doing your laundry, and taking care of housekeeping. What’s not to love?

Are you looking for an assisted living community in Tennessee? Check out Hearthside Senior Living. Our warm and inviting community makes it easy for seniors to embrace a healthy lifestyle, with home-cooked and restaurant-style meals, exercise classes, and a nurse devoted to residents’ health and wellness. To learn more about our amenities and services, please give us a call at 901-266-3329 or contact us online.

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