While there are many benefits to downsizing, be careful to take into consideration the flip side.
- Your lifestyle will change.
- Certainly, with all the decisions about what to keep or not, you will in fact be living with less. That was the goal, after all, but the end result may be a bit startling at first.
- Your new community may be far away from the home you have known for many years. It may offer new and different amenities, or not. Be sure to familiarize yourself well and check out what is available in the new area for the activities that are important to you, before you take the plunge.
- You will have less space when the theory becomes reality.
- If your house was the gathering place for family get togethers, holiday celebrations and overnight guests, you may not be able to continue those traditions in the same way.
- Furniture choices may need to change. It’s very important to do some space planning in advance. Knowing what will fit will help guide your decisions and save you from costly errors.
- You may experience emotional changes.
- The change, with all its benefits, may be a welcome one. Still, it is a change and may stir up some emotions. Saying goodbye to people, places and things can be bring on a wave of nostalgia and even sadness. Be prepared with a support network to help guide you through the transition.
- While downsizing is incredibly popular, some people may question your motives for the change. The old adage, ‘bigger is better’, is contrary to your decision and may project a different image in your mind. It can certainly be overcome by the realized benefits of downsizing, but it is worth acknowledging.