FROM BIG HOUSE TO RIGHT-SIZE: YOUR DOWNSIZING GAME PLAN
Downsizing isn’t just about moving into a smaller home it’s about creating a lifestyle that fits your life now. Whether you’re an empty nester, simplifying finances, or craving less maintenance, going from a big house to the right-size home can be freeing… if you have a plan.
This step-by-step game plan will walk you through the entire downsizing process from mindset to move-in so you can downsize with clarity and confidence.
Step 1: Get Clear on Your “Why”
Before you touch a single box, ask yourself:
• Why do I want to downsize?
• What do I want more of time, money, freedom, simplicity?
• What do I want less of maintenance, cleaning, stress, expenses?
Your “why” becomes your filter for every decision that follows.
Step 2: Define What “Right-Size” Means to You
Right-size looks different for everyone. Consider:
• Square footage
• Number of bedrooms/bathrooms
• Single-level vs. multi-level
• Yard vs. no yard
• Location and lifestyle (walkable, quiet, close to family, etc.)
Write this out. Downsizing works best when it’s intentional not rushed.
Step 3: Sort Before You Sell
Decluttering before listing your home is a game-changer. Start early and go room by room:
• Keep – what fits your next chapter
• Donate – usable items you no longer need
• Sell – furniture, décor, or valuables
• Let go – broken or unused items
Pro tip: If you wouldn’t move it, don’t keep it.
Step 4: Measure Your New Space (Before You Buy or Rent)
One of the biggest downsizing mistakes is assuming things will fit.
Measure:
• Doorways
• Room sizes
• Storage spaces
Compare those measurements to your current furniture. This saves money, frustration, and unnecessary moving costs.
Step 5: Prep Your Home for Sale with Downsizing in Mind
When you’re selling a large home to downsize:
• Depersonalize and simplify décor
• Remove excess furniture to make rooms feel larger
• Pack up items you already know you won’t take
A cleaner, lighter home sells faster and helps you emotionally detach.
Step 6: Understand the Financial Picture
Downsizing isn’t just about space it’s about numbers.
Review:
• Sale price vs. purchase price
• Closing costs
• Moving costs
• Property taxes
• Strata/HOA fees
• Ongoing maintenance savings
Knowing your true net gain helps you make smarter decisions.
Step 7: Choose the Right Type of Home
Right-size might mean:
• Condo
• Townhouse
• Smaller detached home
• One-level living
• Rental
Focus on function over status. The goal is ease, not impressing anyone.
Step 8: Create a Move Plan (Not a Panic Plan)
Break your move into stages:
• 6–8 weeks out: final declutter, book movers
• 4 weeks out: pack non-essentials
• 1–2 weeks out: pack daily items, confirm utilities
• Move week: essentials box, documents, chargers, meds
A timeline reduces overwhelm and last-minute chaos.
Step 9: Set Up Your New Space for How You Live Now
When you move in:
• Don’t rush to fill every space
• Let your lifestyle guide layout
• Prioritize comfort, flow, and function
Smaller spaces feel bigger when they’re designed well.
Step 10: Let Yourself Enjoy the Benefits
Downsizing often brings:
• Lower bills
• Less cleaning
• Less stress
• More freedom
• More time
Give yourself permission to enjoy the lighter, simpler life you just created.
Going from a big house to the right-size home isn’t about losing it’s about gaining control, clarity, and calm. With the right plan, downsizing can be one of the most empowering moves you ever make.