For many Americans, the decision to downsize is not an easy one. Sometimes, it comes after the death of a spouse; other times, it’s simply the move that makes the most sense at a particular time in an individual’s life. The fact is, downsizing can be hugely beneficial if it’s done right; not only does it allow you to save money, it also means you’ll spend less time on cleaning and upkeep, and you’ll get the chance to create a more streamlined life with fewer belongings and less clutter.

There are many details to consider, but with a good plan, downsizing could just be the best decision for you and your family. Do some research to find out how much your current home is worth and set a budget for the new one. Think about what your needs will be in five or 10 years, especially if you’re a senior or have health or mobility issues; your new home should accommodate you easily and ensure safety at all times.

Keep reading for more on how downsizing can be beneficial.

Live Smaller

If you’re single or have recently lost a spouse or partner, downsizing will allow you to live a bit smaller and more simply, which, in turn, will save you money. This is a great opportunity to go through your belongings and get rid of clutter or items that aren’t useful to you anymore. Start in your closet, pulling things that can be sold or donated, and don’t be afraid to let go of items that have sentimental value — give these to family members who will appreciate them. Look for creative ways to keep other items, such as transferring photos to the computer via a scanner so you don’t have to take a stack of photo albums to your new place.

Destress

Living simply and saving money are two great ways to reduce stress. Downsizing gives you the opportunity to make a good deal of money on the sale of your current home, especially if you can get the maximum price for it, and having more money means you’ll be able to pay off any debts without worrying about what the next year or two will bring.

Boost Your Mental Health

Many people don’t realize how much they are affected by their living situation. Whether you have a large home to take care of or are trying to figure out how to adjust your lifestyle after a divorce or the loss of a partner, it’s important to learn how to boost your mental health. One great way is to find an increased sense of well-being, which can come from living more intentionally. This means getting rid of superfluous belongings, streamlining your way of life, and finding a house that meets your needs without being too much to take care of.

Enjoy Life

Living in a smaller home means you’ll have more time to do the things you really want to do, rather than focusing on the cleaning and maintenance of a large house. The more time you have to do the things you love, the less stress you’ll have in general, which is always a good thing.

Making the decision to move into a smaller home isn’t an easy one, but once you start doing the research, you’ll likely see just how much a downsize will benefit you. Talk to your loved ones about your plans so they can help with the move and everything that comes with it, such as packing and making plans for moving day.

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