A Stager's Perspective, WHETHER YOU STAY OR GO

Editing vs. Downsizing: A Stager's Perspective for Maximum Return:

As a home stager with 15 years of experience helping clients present their homes for market, I understand the distinction between editing and downsizing, and how both impact your bottom line. While both involve reducing your belongings, their goals and processes differ significantly. 

Editing, in the context of staging, focuses on strategically placing furniture and decorative items to enhance a home's appeal for sale and maximize its market value. This involves eliminating clutter, outdated décor, and personal items to create a more spacious, clean, and stylish environment that buyers can easily envision themselves living in. Additionally, we may discuss  doing some targeted updating to align the property with the local marketplace, ensuring it presents well and commands the highest possible price. My goal in staging is to always showcase the home's features, not the seller's possessions.

Downsizing, on the other hand,  is about focusing on the belongings you want to keep when moving to a smaller space. Deciding on what to keep, rather than what to discard, simplifies the process and reduces the emotional and physical fatigue of starting a move. As a stager, I've seen firsthand how concentrating on favorite items to move with you helps to make downsizing less stressful and far more efficient. Ultimately, allowing professionals to handle the remaining items ensures a smoother and happier transition, freeing you up to create your new, smaller home, while editing your home for market ensures the best possible return on your investment.

Smart Moves: What NOT to Pack When Downsizing 

Downsizing isn't just about moving to a smaller space; it's about maximizing your moving budget and embracing a more carefree lifestyle. Remember whether it's on the moving truck or in your new home, space will be limited.  Before the moving company’s packers arrive and decisions become rushed, take the time needed to strategically edit your belongings. Avoid wasting money moving these items: 

• Outdated Technology: Bulky stereos and speakers, old TVs, and obsolete media like VHS tapes consume precious space.
• Excessive Cleaning Supplies: Detergents, solutions, and cleaning tools often cost more to move than replace. Simplify your load, especially if your new residence offers housekeeping!
• Redundant Tools:  A small, essential toolkit is probably all you need for most downsizers moving into senior communities.
• Excess Photo Frames: Curate your favorite framed photos; remove and pack the rest of the photos without the frames to save space and reduce the chance of breakage.
• Unnecessary Books: Prioritize cherished titles and donate books to your local library.
• Perishable Food: Begin using up your pantry items months in advance to avoid wasting food and moving costs.
• Old or Worn Clothing: Clothes that no longer fit or are worn out should be donated to Good Will. This will save space and you may want a new wardrobe to go with your new lifestyle!
• Large, Bulky Furniture: Buying some new furniture that’s a perfect fit for your smaller home may be the best option!
• Old Paperwork: Shred or digitally store outdated documents to reduce clutter and safeguard sensitive information.
• Large Collections of Things: Carefully choose just a few items from collections of your special things to bring with you. You’re new home will feel less cluttered, more spacious while still having a few of your favorite things around you.

By thoughtfully curating your belongings, you'll ensure a smoother, more cost-effective move and create a fresh start to life in your new home.

Rightsizing for the Joy of it! : Simplified Senior Living 

Rightsizing is more than just downsizing; it's about creating a home that perfectly fits your active aging lifestyle. In 2023, the average home seller was 60, reflecting a growing desire for simpler, more fulfilling living. Here's how to navigate this journey with ease: 

1. Plan Strategically: Define your "why," set a timeline, and partner with a senior real estate specialist. Get detailed floor plans of your new space and share your vision with loved ones.

2. Curate Your Belongings: Focus on keeping items that you cherish and that serve your needs. Digitize photographs, host sharing events with family and friends and sell or donate excess items.

3. Enlist Professional Help: Discuss who you will need to help you with your Senior Real Estate Specialist whether it be a senior move manager, estate sale specialist, and other experts.

4. Embrace Your New Chapter: View rightsizing as a fresh start. Connect with your new community, make new friends, explore new activities, and create a personal sanctuary in your new home.

Rightsizing is a journey towards more manageable living. With careful planning and the right support, you can create a home that truly reflects you and your active aging lifestyle.