The Method of the Move

The Method of the Move

by Mary Christenson

April 25th, 2010 Cedar Rapids Gazette

Christine Smart, of Designing Moves in Marion, is a member of the National Association of Senior Move Managers.  Here she provides 10 tips on how to downsize your possessions if you’re ready for smaller living quarters.

1. Take pictures or videos of your home and heirlooms to share with family members after the move.
2. Identify the move day, so you can plan how much help you will need and how fast you will have to work.
3. Work through one room at a time to avoid feeling discouraged or overwhelmed. Start in a small room, such as a bathroom.
4. For each room, sort items into three containers or bags; Keep, Throw and Donate.
5. Identify items to go to family members and put their names on the items.
6. For family heirlooms you plan to keep, write down the family story about it.  If you don’t know it, reconsider whether the item is worth keeping.
7. Schedule an auction, consignment or tag sale to get rid of items that are sell-able.
8. Locate charities you want to support that are willing to take your items.
9. Don’t underestimate the time to sort through your garage, basement, shed, etc.
10. On moving day, always move some items yourself so they aren’t lost or broken; jewelry, financial papers, and valuable items.