by Andrea Norris-McKnight

You know you’ll likely downsize at some point. But how do you know the right time to downsize? And what’s the best way to go about making such a big decision and such a big move? We turn to experts for answers.

To get some suggestions on how to downsize successfully, we interviewed Doug and Judy Robinson. Their site Senior Moves provides senior moving and estate services. Here’s their advice on downsizing.

Q: How do you know it’s the right time to downsize?

Doug and Judy Robinson: You know when the house is too big and the space is no longer needed.

You no longer want to (or can) afford the maintenance of a house.

You are tired of yard work because you have other ways you would prefer to spend your time.

Finally, if the stairs are becoming public enemy #1, you are ready for a new lifestyle.

Q: What is the most common misconception about downsizing?

Doug and Judy Robinson: Many people may be considering a new adult bungalow, but it can be more expensive than their older two-story house.

Many believe that downsizing and moving far away to be near children and grandchildren is a great idea, and it will be easy. They don’t realize they will be giving up their support system of friendships, doctors, place of worship, etc. This puts unrealistic expectations on family to spend a lot of time with them, not realizing that their children have their own commitments, such as jobs, kids’ sports, and other things.

Related: Moving Away From Kids and Grandkids To Better Afford Retirement Living Expenses

Q: What do people overlook when downsizing?

Doug and Judy Robinson:

1. We often get calls from people who never realized they would live so long and spend so much of their money. Now they need to downsize financially. Talk with a financial planner and be realistic about what you can afford.
2. Many people make decisions based only on emotions and never carefully consider the lifestyle that will work for them personally. When you know the lifestyle you want, it is easier to find the right accommodations whether it is a house, apartment, or retirement residence.
3. Large furniture usually doesn’t fit in a smaller space. At times, people buy too much furniture prematurely and the decisions can be the wrong ones for the space they have.

Related: Comparing Retirement Housing Options: A Guide

Q: Are there certain things to keep or discard?

Doug and Judy Robinson: Each person is different, so there is no formula on what to keep. On the other hand, we have seen seniors move ten bottles of shampoo or excessive cleaning supplies because they had “paid for them.”

It costs to move all that stuff! Move what you love and use. Sell, give away, or dispose of the rest. It is the same with clothing and kitchen items. Keep and move what you love and use.

Q: Please share any tricks and techniques that can make downsizing easier.

Doug and Judy Robinson: Buy some half-inch removable colored dots. Choose one color and identify what will go with you. Use these five steps of downsizing:

1. Decide what to keep
2. Decide what to give to family
3. Decide what to sell
4. Decide what to donate
5. Decide what to discard

Choose a different color for each step of the process. Green means go. This is helpful for folks with some memory loss.

Downsizing can be exciting, and it can be terrifying. If you are dreading the change, it is harder to get through the process. On the other hand, if you are looking forward to the change, it is easier to get through the process because you have positive expectations.

Related Articles

• Is Downsizing In Retirement Right for You?
• Homeowners Insurance When You Downsize
• Before Downsizing to the Rental Market for Retirement
• Downsizing Your Stuff When Moving to a Smaller House

Reviewed March 2024

About the Experts

Doug and Judy Robinson were “Downsizing Pioneers” in North America. Since 1996, they have helped nearly 4000 clients. Doug and Judy are the authors of the book The Best of the Rest – Downsizing for Boomers and Seniors and eight eBooks. They have been on radio and television numerous times. Their interactive and sometimes humorous presentations help people make better and more informed decisions. They are also available for consultations both by phone and through social media.