Downsizing is a big life step! Here is an easy-to-follow checklist that will help you in completing your downsize without any stress or missed steps.

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Pre-Planning Stage

1. Assess Current Needs and Future Goals

  • Determine reasons for downsizing (e.g., financial, health, lifestyle).
  • Set clear goals for the new living arrangement (e.g., proximity to family, medical facilities, amenities).

2. Research Housing Options

  • Explore different housing options: condos, apartments, retirement communities, assisted living.
  • Consider location preferences within Metro Vancouver.
  • Make a list of your wants and needs.

3. Financial Planning

  • Consult with a financial advisor to understand the financials of selling and buying/moving, and downsizing.
  • Create a budget for the move, including potential renovations and new furniture.

Decluttering and Sorting

4. Inventory Possessions

  • Decide if you want to do inventory yourself or hire declutter professionals.
  • *Find professional help (reach out to us if you need recommendations)
  • Make a list of all possessions by room.
  • Categorise items into keep, sell, donate, and discard.

5. Declutter Room by Room

  • Start with less frequently used rooms.
  • Use the “one-year rule”: if it hasn’t been used in a year, consider letting it go.
  • If using a professional, hand off your list and let them do the sorting. You can always review before discarding.

6. Organise a Yard Sale or Online Sales

  • Sell valuable items through a yard sale, online marketplaces, or consignment shops.

7. Donate Unwanted Items

  • Identify local charities, thrift shops, and donation centres.
  • Arrange for pick-up of large items if necessary.

8. Dispose of Non-Sellable/Non-Donatable Items

  • Hire a junk removal service for items that cannot be sold or donated.

Preparing the Home for Sale

9. Hire a Realtor Specialising in Seniors

  • Choose a realtor experienced in downsizing and working with senior clients.
  • Set a realistic timeline for the sale.

10. Home Repairs and Staging

  • Make necessary repairs and updates to increase marketability.
  • Consider professional staging to showcase the home.

11. Appraisal and Pricing

  • Get a professional appraisal to set a competitive price.
  • Review comparable homes in the area to set the asking price.

Selling and Moving

12. List the Home

  • Work with your realtor to list the home and market it effectively.

13. Pack Smartly

  • Pack non-essential items early.
  • Label boxes clearly and keep an inventory.

14. Hire Professional Movers

  • Get quotes from several moving companies.
  • Choose a reputable mover with experience in senior relocations.

15. Set Up New Home

  • Plan the layout of the new home in advance.
  • Schedule utilities and services to be set up in the new home before the move.

16. Notify Important Parties

  • Update address with banks, insurance companies, subscriptions, and other important services.
  • Inform friends and family of the move.

Post-Move

17. Unpack and Settle In

  • Unpack essentials first (kitchen, bathroom, bedroom).
  • Take time to arrange and decorate the new space.

18. Explore New Community

  • Get to know the new neighbourhood.
  • Locate nearby amenities such as grocery stores, parks, and medical facilities.
  • Explore local parks.

19. Establish New Routines

  • Create a daily routine to adjust to the new living environment.
  • Engage in community activities to build new relationships.

20. Health and Safety

  • Ensure the new home is safe and accessible (e.g., install grab bars, remove trip hazards).
  • Keep emergency contacts updated and easily accessible.
  • This checklist will help your senior client navigate the downsizing process smoothly, ensuring they feel supported and prepared every step of the way.

Ready to Downsize?

If you’re ready to downsize and need help getting through these steps in this checklist, the team at Metro Vancouver Life is here to help you every step of the way. From decluttering to helping you settle in your new community. We handle all the heavy lifting, so your downsizing experience can be filled only with exciting moments. 
Send us a message here if you’re interested in getting downsizing assistance.