We’ve all heard that it’s never too early to start thinking about retirement. For many, that means years of stocking away little bits of money, relying on compound interest and a diverse investment portfolio.
However, in comparison to the many years we save for retirement, we usually only wait until the last moments to think about where we’re going to spend our retirement. With so many active adults considering Naples, FL as a top retirement destination, many find that they’ve come down with more things the need.
Downsizing is great way to enter a new phase of your life, one that’s less stressful and more relaxing.
Here are 7 Ways to organize and downsize your Naples home:
1) Start small
It’s tempting to want to tackle the whole house right away. However, this will not only cause stress emotionally, but also physically. Organizing is hard work. First there is the mental stress of deciding what you still need and what you should part ways with, and then there is the physical stress of packing items, deciding who who they should go to, and arranging for their delivery or going through the process of selling them.
The solution: Tackle one room or area at a time. Plan for a two hour stretch and don’t forget to take breaks to clear your mind.
2) Focus on the most used items, and let go of the rest
When going through your items, ask yourself, “When was this last used?” If you can answer, “Yesterday,” then chances are, the item is a keeper. However, things that are used most often get the most wear and tear.So if you use the item everyday and it’s worn out, it may be a good idea to replace it with a newer, less-used item that you already own.
Don’t be afraid to let go of items that are rarely used, thinking, “What if I need it next week?” Remember, you are not the only person who has that item. It may be better to borrow someone else’s if the need arises. However, chances are, if you haven’t used it in a year, you won’t need it next week.
3) If it’s going to be an inheritance or legacy, consider giving it now
Why wait for a tragedy to pass on an inheritance or legacy? If you’re not using the item, consider giving it as a gift now and enjoy the feeling of giving. Your dear one will get to treasure it now and will be reminded of you every time they see it.
4) Have a collection? Keep your favorite piece, but remember the rest
For collectors, there is no harm in keeping one or two items in your collection. These items can be displayed nicely and will serve as a remembrance of times past when you had the full collection set. To make it easier to give up the rest of the set, consider taking a picture of the complete set and displaying it next to the treasured pieces you decide to keep.
5) Get valuable items appraised and sold at the best price
Rare and antique items can be very valuable. If the item will not be kept in the family, consider getting it appraised and sold either at auction, or on consignment.
6) If it’s damaged, discard it
If it’s broken, stained, chipped – get rid of it! Even charities can’t sell these items. That goes for plastic containers without lids too.
7) Consider getting help from a professional organizer
Retirement is meant to be less stressful and more relaxing. However, it’s a daunting task navigating through 20, 30, or even 50 years of collectibles, mementos, and just plain stuff. But you don’t have to do it alone. Getting help from a professional organizer can make the process easier, faster, even fun. And remember, just like it’s never too early or late to save for retirement, it’s never too early or late to start downsizing and getting organized.
