At some point in our lives, we will all have to downsize. This is especially true for those who are getting ready to retire. For example, if you are moving into a smaller home or apartment after retiring, you will need to get rid of some things before the move. There are many reasons why downsizing can be stressful.
You may feel like you don’t have enough time in your life or space in your current home. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. If you take the right steps and mentally prepare yourself for this transition, downsizing can bring great joy to your life and make it easier overall. Here are a few tips to help you downsize for retirement:
Research the Cost of Living
The cost of living is the cost of paying for necessities like food, shelter, transportation, and medical care in a geographical area. It’s important to understand how your new city stacks up in terms of affordability before you pull the trigger on the move.
This is especially true if you’re looking to downsize to save money. You are no longer working, so you must have a realistic look at your finances and ensure that you can make the right choices when it comes to where you want to live during retirement. This could be downsizing to a smaller house or living in a community, similar to this assisted living La Grange, Illinois community, or somewhere in your local area.
Figure Out How You Will Do This Financially
Now that you have a plan for where to live and what size of the home, it’s time to make sure your finances are in order. This can be a challenge if you don’t have access to a retirement savings plan through work or are unsure how much money you’ll need after retiring.
By making some educated guesses as to what your expenses will be, you can make an informed decision about downsizing and know whether it’s right for you.
Decide Whether You Want to Sell, Rent, or Keep Your Current Home
Whether you decide to sell, rent, or keep your current home when downsizing for retirement will depend on several factors. The first thing to consider is whether you have enough money to support yourself in your retirement years. If so, it may be best to sell and move closer to family and friends.
If you cannot afford your current lifestyle without selling the home, then renting could be a viable option. However, if you prefer to stay in your home for as long as possible, renting out rooms may be an option too.
A final consideration is whether there are any special circumstances at play, such as emotional ties or financial commitments, that make selling or renting out rooms less desirable than keeping your current home.
If Possible, Visit the New Places Before Deciding on a Location
You may find that visiting the location before deciding is helpful. If you can’t physically see it, try to find out as much as possible about the place from friends, family members, and online sources. Look into local events and festivals, so you know if they suit your interests.
Find out if there are any attractions nearby that might appeal to you, such as museums or parks, so that when it’s time to move, you’ll have options for entertainment on weekends or evenings when friends aren’t able to go with you.
Find a Moving Company That Works for You and Your Schedule
One of the first things you should do when planning to move is find a moving company. There are many options available, so it’s important to pick one that works best for your needs.
The first thing to do is check reviews online and ask friends and family for recommendations. You want to ensure that the company is responsive to your needs, has a good reputation, and offers competitive pricing. The company should also have all necessary licenses and insurance before moving day arrives.
Conclusion
Downsizing can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be a lot of work. The key is to start early and do your research, so you don’t make any hasty decisions. Make sure you have all your ducks in a row before taking this plunge into retirement life.
