If you need to downsize when you move to Twickenham in London, the challenge will be a considerable one. Nobody likes downsizing, as they fear they’d have to part with too many cherished belongings. In fact, downsizing can be an opportunity to start over and create a much more beautiful, cozy and welcoming home, that’s free of clutter and much more functional.
The first step to a successful downsizing is to go through each drawer, cabinet, closet and storage area at home and take everything out. Put back the thing that you absolutely cannot live without and throw away, donate, sell or recycle the rest. This will save you lots of time and wondering what to do later on when you start packing. See this as the ultimate house clearance your home has been in need of for the past few years. The smaller your shipment the cheaper your house move will be, it’s as simple as that. Moreover, downsizing means exactly that – getting rid of the clutter and even of some items you use often. Make sure you have the exact measurements of your future home and a space plan.
Next, measure all your furniture pieces – you need to know whether everything will fit in your new home. Also consider the location of the windows and the doors – they need to be opened easily. These are online software tools which will help you plan each room and the location of each item you have. Assess the storage areas so you don’t regret it later. The storage spaces will determine what you can keep in your future home and whether some items should be replaced with more compact ones. It’s wise to use the heights of the rooms too – this will make it possible to fit more. Depending on how much time and energy you have, you have various options of disposing of the unwanted items. You can drive them to different charity shops or go to a boot sale. You can always organize a garage sale at your backyard but this might require some more time and thinking. Check for ways to give them for recycling – you could even earn some money this way. If none of these options will work for you, you can try selling the items online or simply throw them away. Be careful though – some items shouldn’t be disposed like regular junk. Of course before you try any of the above-listed options, you should call some friends or relatives and ask them if they need any of the items you want to dispose of – this can save you time and energy. If you have too many items you can’t keep and especially large ones, a yard sale might be the best option for you. At least you wouldn’t have to worry about transporting and loading of the items.
Before you move to your new home, make sure everything is well-organized and you have considered the storage options. The largest items should be moved into the house first and then the rest can be arranged around them. It’s harder to navigate things in a smaller home, but if you’ve managed to keep your shipment to a reasonable amount, the transition won’t be as hard as you expect.