Downsizing Before a Big Move: Why Starting 1–2 Years Ahead Matters

If you're planning a move especially one involving a longtime family home downsizing isn't something you want to leave to the last minute. Whether you're transitioning into a smaller home, moving to a retirement community, or helping a loved one prepare for a change, one of the most common regrets we hear is: “I wish we had started sooner.”

Our best advice? Start downsizing at least 1–2 years before your planned move. That might sound early, but with decades of belongings to sort through, emotions to navigate, and decisions to make, time is your greatest asset.

Why Start So Early?

Downsizing is more than just decluttering. It’s a process that requires thoughtfulness and stamina. Starting early gives you:

• Time to make thoughtful decisions about what to keep, donate, sell, or pass along to family.

• Space to handle emotional attachments to possessions without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

• Flexibility to tackle a little at a time which makes the process more manageable and less stressful.

We often recommend setting aside just 1–2 hours a week to focus on a single drawer, closet, or category. These small sessions add up and allow for steady progress without disrupting your daily life.

Where to Begin

Start with less emotionally charged areas like the linen closet, kitchen gadgets, or duplicate tools in the garage. Once you build momentum, it becomes easier to address more sentimental items like photo albums or inherited furniture.

Keep a donation box going, give family members a chance to claim keepsakes, and take photos of items you want to remember but don’t need to keep.

What If You’re Short on Time?

If your timeline is tighter, it’s still possible to downsize efficiently—with support. A Senior Move Manager can step in to help prioritize tasks, manage logistics, and keep things moving at a pace that works for you.

Final Thought

A successful move starts well before the moving truck pulls up. By giving yourself time and structure, you can reduce stress, make intentional decisions, and feel more in control of the transition ahead. And if it all feels like too much—we’re here to help.