Dear Readers, 

We would like to address our seniors who may be thinking of selling their homes.   

Many time’s this can be a very difficult time for seniors who may have to downsize and move to another location that better suites their needs. 

We have encountered those seniors who are overwhelmed with having to face the dilemma of ‘Where do I start.”  I have accumulated so much “stuff” that it would be impossible to move. Fear not, this can be done.  

There are Realtors that cater to seniors. They have the know-how on how to make the job easy and designate the right people to help accommodate their clients.

We always tell our clients one room at a time, and it is OK to part with things, even though it may be tough to do.

Here are a few tips on downsizing:

• Downsize the big stuff: If you are moving to a smaller home, go from room to room and decide what furniture will not fit into your new home. Eliminate what you cannot use.
• Take the small items with you: Take with you the items that you are still using.   Keep items with sentimental value or of practical purpose.  
• Go through every box: This can be a joyous occasion. What fun it is to go through boxes that have been stashed away for years and you sit and reminisce about those good ol’ days. Keep what you feel is important and junk the rest.  
• Follow the one-year rule: We know how hard it is to hang on to things that you no longer use (especially clothes), I’ll fit into that outfit someday.  Get rid of anything you have not worn or used in the last year. It’s amazing how soon you will forget that item.  
• It’s all just stuff: Sometimes yes. But when paring down your life, get rid of as much as you can, but save things that your children or maybe your grandchildren may treasure someday.
• Digitize whenever you can: Most documents can simply be scanned to a computer and saved as a PDF file or uploaded to the cloud. 

Moving can be made into a fun experience if you have someone helping you. We have had personal experiences by assisting people who were not able (health-wise) to do it on their own. Offering them a chair and going thought items with them, we would put articles in save & give-away boxes. We breezed through rooms and were done in no time. 

Our lives will always bring changes. Get excited about your new home and the move will be a snap. 

Real estate is hot today. If you are thinking of selling, there is no better time.  Inventory is low, and homes are bringing in top dollar. 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: 7 Rules of Life — Smile, be kind, don’t give up, don’t compare, avoid negativity, make peace with your past, take care of your body and mind.