Page 12 - 7-5-21

Page 12, RURAL-URBAN RECORD, July 5, 2021

5 steps to help cope with downsizing

Downsizing your family home may be one of the hardest decisions for you to make.
According to a 2018 Transamerica Center for Retirement Research report, 4 in 10 re-
tirees have moved from their family home and 51% of those retirees have downsized.
Downsizing and dismantling possessions from the past 20-30 years can feel like a
daunting task. It can be both physically and emotionally difficult. As a Senior Real Estate
Specialist, I have worked with a number of clients who have chosen to downsize and I
have also worked with a number of clients who unfortunately have felt like life has forced
them to downsize. If you can take control of the process and the decision to downsize it
will make the whole process smoother and feel better.
1. Recognize your feelings, whatever they are. For some people, the thought of
downsizing and leaving their family home can be quite emotional. Many times, I remind
my clients that their memories don’t stay with the house.Their memories get to go with
them, whether it is a memory of bringing their child home from the hospital or watching
them get ready on graduation day. That is the beauty of a memory, it is yours for the
keeping. Recognizing your feelings is a huge part of starting this process. I recommend
talking with a friend or trusted family member about your feelings.
2. Focus on what you are gaining rather than what you are losing. If you sell your
home and move to an active lifestyle community you may find that you get involved in
new activities. If you move to a senior apartment or senior living facility you may also find
a sense of comradery and companionship from others in similar situations.
3. Start with the least emotional area of your home first. Many of my clients want to
start with sorting through their kitchen first. A kitchen holds a lot of memories, especially
if you had family dinners or enjoyed cooking. The kitchen is a space that also may take
quite a bit of time to sort through and its not an area you want to rush through either. I
suggest staring with a bathroom and even go as far as starting with your linen closet be-
cause for many it is a manageable space. If you get through one of the smaller spaces
first, you will feel more accomplished and inspired to keep moving along.
4. While sorting, enlist help from a family member, trusted friend, or professional.
Entrusting one of these people is a great way to stay on task. They are more objective
because they don’t have the same sentimental attachment and they can help you stay
focused on the process. As a Realtor I also have recommendations of professional ser-
vice that can not only help with the sorting process but they can help with all of your stuff
and for making the downsizing transition smoother.
5. Talk with a Realtor 6-12 months in advance. Many people think talking with a Real-
tor about selling should come right before you put your home on the market, but I have
found that talking with a Realtor 6-12 months before you are thinking about downsizing
will help the process. I would also suggest speaking with a Senior Real Estate Specialist
as they may have a better understanding of the emotions you are going through and can
help guide you through prioritizing the steps that you need to get your home ready for
the market and to help with your downsizing.
Downsizing may bring some painful thoughts or memories to the surface, but the
sensation of freedom is powerful as well. For some people it might be freedom from
maintaining a yard, freedom from added maintenance expenses or increased taxes, or
even freedom from loneliness. Whatever “freedom” you are looking to gain remember
that downsizing is a marathon and not a sprint so it is important to allow yourself the time
needed to get through the process.
For more information or to schedule a downsizing consultation please call Jen Herron
Underwood at (440) 371-2862.

EXPERIENCE THE
Danbury Difference!

Danbury helps bring

smiles and laughter daily!

We are passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals
impacted by a dementia diagnosis such as Alzheimer’s or a memory

disorder. Our expertise, combined with active family support and open
communication, can make a difference. Danbury is dedicated to
promoting dignity within an atmosphere of warmth, meaningful

activities, and a sense of community.

Call today to learn more about our Memory Care Neighborhood.

440.596.3797

33770 Bagley Road
North Ridgeville, OH 44039

Villas
Villas
Coming Soon! Villas | Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care
Coming Soon!
youtube.com/TheDanburyDifference

facebook.com/DanburySeniorLivingNorthRidgeville

VISITATION IS OPEN, SIMPLE & SAFE