Downsizing with Ease: Empowering Boomers to Embrace a Simpler, More Fulfilling Lifestyle

As the baby boomer generation approaches retirement, a growing number of individuals are seeking to downsize their lives. Downsizing, the intentional act of simplifying and reducing possessions, holds significant relevance for boomers in today’s society. It offers financial security and the opportunity to create a more fulfilling lifestyle by downsizing home inventories. So, we will explore how empowering boomers to embrace downsizing with ease can lead to a simpler, more rewarding existence.

Downsizing With ease and Overcoming Emotional Barriers

For many baby boomers looking to downsize and embrace a simpler life, one of the biggest challenges lies in overcoming emotional barriers. As individuals who have accumulated possessions and memories over a lifetime, letting go can be an emotionally charged process. The sentimental value attached to items can create a sense of attachment and reluctance to part ways. However, boomers must confront these emotional barriers head-on to embark on a downsizing journey. One effective strategy for overcoming emotional attachments is gradually approaching the decluttering and organizing process. Taking small steps allows boomers to adjust to the idea of letting go and reduces feelings of overwhelm. They can start by sorting items into categories and making decisions based on their importance and utility.

confront emotional barriers head-on
approach decluttering gradually
sort items into categories

Another helpful technique is focusing on the positive aspects of downsizing, such as the freedom and liberation of a simpler lifestyle. Boomers can visualize the benefits of decluttering, such as less maintenance and more time and energy for meaningful experiences. Moreover, seeking support from loved ones, friends, or support groups can make the downsizing process less daunting. Engaging in open conversations about emotional challenges can provide a sense of empathy and understanding, allowing boomers to process their feelings more effectively. By sharing stories and experiences, boomers can gain valuable insights and advice from others who have successfully downsized.

Making plans for a downsize before execution is necessary for a smooth transition and this is what a certified senior move manager will do.

Design A Functional Living Space By Downsizing

This is a crucial aspect of downsizing for baby boomers seeking a simpler lifestyle. One effective strategy is to embrace the concept of “rightsizing” – selecting a home or living arrangement that perfectly suits boomers’ needs and preferences. Boomers should prioritize simplicity, practicality, and efficiency when designing a functional living space and creating a clean home. It is important to carefully evaluate each item occupying the space carefully, considering its usefulness and value. Selecting furniture and storage solutions that serve multiple purposes, such as ottomans with hidden storage or modular shelving systems, can maximize the functionality of the space.

Furthermore, organizing and decluttering play a significant role in creating a functional living environment. Home organizing services and move management can make this process easier. You can speed up the boomer downsize process with a move manager. Furthermore, clearing house estates with estate cleaning services can be easy.

In terms of layout and design, boomers should prioritize ease of movement and accessibility. Ensuring that pathways are clear and wide enough for mobility aids, if needed, is crucial. Incorporating ergonomic furniture and fixtures can enhance comfort and reduce physical strain. Lastly, incorporating natural light and open spaces can create a sense of airiness and promote a peaceful atmosphere. By carefully considering the design and functionality of their living space, boomers can create a harmonious and efficient environment that supports their desired simpler lifestyle.

Embracing A Minimalist Lifestyle

This can be a transformative and empowering choice for baby boomers seeking a simpler way of life. By consciously shifting their focus from material possessions to experiences and relationships, boomers can find a renewed sense of fulfillment and contentment. Adopting a minimalist mindset involves decluttering physical belongings and mental and emotional clutter. As boomers look to live a simpler life, they can begin by assessing their priorities and identifying what truly brings them joy and meaning. Letting go of excessive material possessions can be liberating, freeing up physical space and mental energy. Furthermore, a senior moving specialist can make a senior relocation easy.

declutter mental and physical clutter
assess your priorities
identify what truly brings joy

It allows boomers to appreciate and value what truly matters to them. Minimalism encourages intentional living, where every decision is made with purpose. Boomers can practice mindful consumption, only acquiring items that serve a practical or genuine purpose in their lives. This approach can help them break free from the consumerist culture and reduce unnecessary expenses. Moreover, a minimalist lifestyle encourages sustainability and environmental consciousness. Boomers can opt for quality over quantity, investing in well-made, durable items that will stand the test of time. By reducing their ecological footprint, they contribute to a healthier planet for future generations. Downsizing with ease allows baby boomers to reinvent retirement and create a new chapter filled with purpose and fulfillment.

de-cluttering as a task in downsizing, can be bing up many emotions as decision are made to keep, throw away or sell.

Creating A Simpler And More Fulfilling Retirement

Reinventing retirement after downsizing involves redefining what it means to retire. Boomers can break away from traditional notions of retirement as a time of leisure and relaxation and instead view it as a period of personal growth and exploration. They can embark on second careers, start their businesses, or engage in meaningful volunteer work that aligns with their values. Additionally, downsizing allows boomers to relocate to new areas with a different lifestyle or closer proximity to nature and outdoor activities. This change in environment can provide a fresh perspective and a chance to explore new hobbies, connect with like-minded individuals, and engage in vibrant communities.

When downsizing, avoid DIY moving for seniors. Overall, it’s best to reconsider your DIY move to protect your health and be able to enjoy your reinvented retirement. Reinventing retirement also means prioritizing health and wellness. Boomers can use their newfound time and freedom to focus on physical fitness, mental well-being, and cultivating a healthy lifestyle. They can participate in activities such as yoga, hiking, or joining fitness groups that promote an active and fulfilling retirement. By reinventing retirement after downsizing, boomers can live a more purposeful, dynamic, and satisfying life. They can embrace new challenges, continue to learn and grow, and positively impact their communities. Downsizing becomes a catalyst for a re-imagined retirement filled with excitement, fulfillment, and endless possibilities.

Making Downsizing And Moving Easier For Boomers

Downsizing and moving can be daunting for baby boomers, but with the right approach and mindset, it can become a smooth and empowering experience. To simplify the process, start early and plan by creating a timeline and checklist to stay organized. Assess your belongings and prioritize what you truly need and cherish, separating them into categories like keep, donate, sell, or discard. Consider hiring professionals specializing in downsizing and organizing to provide guidance and support. Optimize space when moving to a smaller home by carefully planning your furniture layout and utilizing storage solutions.

plan by creating a timeline
donate, sell, or discard what you don’t need
plan your furniture layout in advance

Label boxes and containers to easily identify their contents during the move and unpacking process. Enlist the help of family, friends, or professional movers to ease the physical aspects of the move. Embrace the new chapter by viewing it as an opportunity for a fresh start, open to new experiences, and focusing on the positive aspects of your simplified lifestyle. By following these downsizing and moving tips, boomers can easily navigate the process, reduce stress, and embrace their new, simpler living environment, leading to a fulfilling and empowering transition.

ease the task of a downsize and possible move with a certified senior move manage, like Regina Lark of A Clear Path.

To Sum Up

In conclusion, downsizing with ease empowers baby boomers to embrace a simpler, more fulfilling lifestyle. Letting go of excess possessions and prioritizing experiences over material possessions can lead to a greater sense of fulfillment. Downsizing becomes an opportunity to create a harmonious living environment that supports boomers’ needs and desires. By downsizing, boomers can reduce financial burdens, optimize their living spaces, and focus on what truly matters in life. It is a journey that requires planning, support, and a willingness to embrace change. However, the rewards are profound: a simpler life filled with meaningful connections, personal growth, and a sense of purpose.

Photos used:
https://www.pexels.com/photo/elderly-couple-holding-red-heart-5637595/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-grandmother-and-grandfather-serving-food-8522804/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/women-packing-their-things-6942741/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/cheerful-aged-women-friends-communicating-while-sitting-at-table-at-home-5257616/

Top Benefits of Using Technology to Stay Organized at Home

technology can help keep one organized without the help of a professional organizer

We live in the age of technology. So, we can easily say that technology has become integral to our daily (and nightly) lives. We use it to ease our work, our studies, etc. But we can also use it to stay organized at home. Yes, you read that correctly! There are many benefits of using technology to stay organized at home, and today, we will share some of the most important (and beneficial) ones with you. Thus, keep reading if you want to know how to use some ‘technology’ and how your life and home can benefit from it.

Increased productivity

To increase your productivity around the house, you have several options – to start decluttering all the stuff you have accumulated around your home, to deep clean every inch of all of your rooms, to completely change your mindset, or to invest in smart home devices.

But how can smart home devices increase your productivity and help you stay organized at home? Well, with the help of technology, you can, for example, easily create to-do lists with reminders, schedule all the tasks that need to be done around the home, etc., and do all other things that can help you stay on top of your responsibilities and get more done in less time.

organizatoni can be simplified using youir phone and connected devices.

When your home is ‘smart,’ you’ll always be able to control it with your phone..

Your Smart Home Can Work for You

Speaking of getting more things done in less time, did you know that your smart home can actually work for you while you are gone and, thus, save you a lot of time and energy? Yes, it absolutely can!

Imagine this – you are at work, it is freezing outside, and you just don’t want to go home because you know that the inside of your home is going to be icy as well. But, if you invest in a smart heating system, you can turn on the heating using your phone before you get home. This way, once you arrive, you will be greeted by a warm home.

You can do this with your cooling system in the summer as well. And that is not all – you can also invest in smart appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, microwave ovens, etc., and control them all from your phone.

Greater Flexibility

If you work from home, using smart devices such as your phone, laptop, tablet, etc., is a must. But that is not the only way for you to be more flexible at home.

For example, if you have small children, you can always monitor them using smart cameras and even reheat their lunch in that smart microwave from afar. If you have pets, you can also get them one of those smart feeders and not worry whether they need to be fed while you are outside doing some work. All of these smart devices (as well as many more) can help you be more flexible and not worry much about what is happening at home.

Moreover, besides using technology to stay organized at home, you can also use it when moving out of your home, for instance. Of course, experts from Bravo Moving say that moving professionals can help you do all the tough moving-related tasks, but you can keep everything organized with your to-do lists, schedules, reminders, and all other things smart devices offer.

your phone is your gateway to better organization and a professional organizer can help find the bests apps

It would be a shame to have all these options to help you stay organized at home and not use them.

Your Home Can Finally Be More Eco-Friendly

Smart home devices are not there only to help you save time and energy; they are also there to help you save money and, most importantly, help you save our planet. We think that this is more than enough.

But how can smart devices save you money while saving the planet at the same time? Well, here are some examples:

Smart thermostats can help you save a lot of energy by learning your heating and cooling patterns and adjusting the temperature when necessary
Smart lighting systems can also help you save energy by turning off lights when they’re not needed
Smart appliances, such as washing and drying machines, can be more energy efficient than traditional models
Smart water systems can help you conserve water by alerting you if there is a leak or a burst pipe

And when you save so much energy and water, you are actually saving the planet! Moreover, if you want to be even more eco-friendly, you can invest in solar panels, outside boilers, energy-efficient light bulbs, etc. Of course, these ‘green’ features can’t help you stay organized at home per se, but they can help you save the planet.

a professional organizer can help you use technology to organizer your life, save on energy usage and help save and heal the planet

With the right smart technology, you can save a lot of energy!

You can Upgrade Safety and Security Levels in Your Home

We cannot talk about the benefits of using technology to stay organized at home without mentioning the upgraded safety and security levels throughout your entire home. Nowadays, with smart cameras and alarms, you can monitor every inch of your home. And, if something does happen, the police are just one button away. This type of smart device is quite beneficial for the elderly who have problems walking, for example. With a smart security device, they won’t even have to get out of bed to see who is outside the door.

Security and safety smart home devices are also beneficial for parents who have to leave their little ones at home. However, with a strong security system, they will have nothing to worry about. And, with a good camera and a microphone, they can even interact with their children while away.

These are just some of the top benefits of using technology to stay organized at home. But be sure there are many more. So, if your budget allows it, don’t be afraid to invest in some smart pieces – they can only make your life easier.

Photos Used:
Round Grey Speaker On Brown Board · Free Stock Photo (pexels.com)
Woman Wearing White V Neck Shirt Using Space Gray Iphone 6 · Free Stock Photo (pexels.com)
Black Iphone 7 on Brown Table · Free Stock Photo (pexels.com)
Woman Wearing a White Blazer Standing Beside a Kitchen Counter · Free Stock Photo (pexels.com)

7 Mental Health Benefits of Downsizing

organizing, packing, selling, donating are all part of downsizing and a senior professional move manager can help.

Reaching a certain age and retiring is, for many people, a period when they start reflecting on their life. This may be the time when you start considering leaving your old home behind and moving to a smaller property. Although decluttering has many benefits, it is usually easier said than done. However, once it’s over, you will most likely be thankful to yourself for deciding to go through with it. Some ideas for downsizing your property as a boomer and making it a perfect retirement property include decorating, downsizing your closet, organizing your garage, garden, or other outdoor spaces, and more. This article will go over the seven mental health benefits of downsizing in order to decide if and why moving to a smaller home would be the right next step in your life.

It helps reduce stress

Maintaining a spacious property is far from an easy task. Now – imagine having to do it in your old age. Retirement is supposed to be a period in a person’s life when they can finally step away from all responsibilities and enjoy some peace and quiet. However, that might not be as easy as it sounds if you have a large house to upkeep – especially if your children are long moved out and you have little or no help.

Moving out of a house and into a smaller apartment will help significantly reduce stress. You won’t have to worry about tedious cleaning that lasts an entire day – in a smaller living space, weekly cleaning might take you just a couple of hours. In order to make this process easier and more pleasant, we recommend you declutter your old house and clear accumulated stuff before moving into your new home. This way, you’ll avoid taking any unnecessary belongings with you.

paking and unpacing are one of the services of a A+ Certified senior move manager

It saves you a significant amount of money

An obvious advantage of downsizing is that you will be able to save up a lot on your monthly energy bills. No longer working means not having as much money to spend as you had before. Granted, you’ll have your pension, but do you really wish to spend your hard-earned money on the bills when you could have a nice dinner with your family, buy something nice for yourself or take a vacation trip to a country that you had never visited before? Have you ever thought about the difference between the bills for a big house and a small apartment? If not, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Another way to earn and save some money during the process of moving is to sell the stuff you no longer need. You can easily do this by listing your items on any online selling platforms. Some of the most commonly used ones are:

Amazon
Craigslist
eBay
Facebook Marketplace

If you aren’t too sure about how to use these online marketplaces, you could put the images of the items on your personal Facebook or Instagram profile. Granted, the audience won’t be as wide, but you never know – maybe your friends, or friends of your friends, will be interested in buying what you are selling.

Alternatively, you can donate your things to a local charity.

Allows for more free time

Retirement means you will finally have more time to spend on yourself and your hobbies. If you don’t have many maintenance tasks to perform in your place, the amount of your free time increases even more. Downsizing helps reduce all the work you need to do around your house and therefore helps you enjoy all your free time to the fullest – which is what all retired seniors deserve. Before reaching a decision to downsize, as before making any other decisions, it’s best to get informed on the topic. Consumer Opinion suggests that if your friends and family can’t be the ones to advise you, some of the websites on the internet can be helpful to you.

just organizing stuff that has become clutter is a health benefit of organizing.

Increases your confidence

Showing your new place to your friends and family will feel so rewarding and is guaranteed to boost your confidence – especially when you know you’re responsible for organizing it. Smaller spaces are easier to decorate, tidy up and keep clean and organized at all times – so you’ll be able to keep your home beautiful and feel proud every time you present it to your guests.

Prevents you from feeling lonely

One of the mental health benefits of downsizing, if not the biggest one, is that you are bound to feel less alone in a place that is smaller and not as full of memories compared to a house where you’ve lived for most of your life. A big and empty house can feel daunting and overwhelming at times, especially if you are the only one living in it.

Moreover, moving to a smaller living space to be close to your friends and family is a great way to prevent feeling alone when you reach a certain age. It’s important to note that downsizing will by no means fix all your problems. If you are feeling sad or lonely, you should make sure to get the help you need and talk to a professional. If you don’t have the time or energy to book an in-person therapy session, a good option to consider is choosing an online therapy provider.

It makes you live in the present

Living in the same house for many years means that it is full of memories that you have been accumulating practically for an entire lifetime. Although in a way, being surrounded by all these memories is a beautiful thing, it may very easily provoke feelings of nostalgia and sadness. To put it simply – being constantly surrounded by memories can weigh you down emotionally. Getting rid of them by downsizing can be just the thing you need in order to free your mind, liberate yourself, and significantly improve your mental health. Think of your new apartment as a clean slate and a new beginning.

safety issues are important for seniors and downsizng can help create healthier spaces for living.

One of the mental health benefits of downsizing is getting rid of memories – but it doesn’t mean that you need to get rid of all of them.

Prevents safety risks

Decluttering can also help remove safety hazards and reduce the risks of harming your well-being in any way, which is particularly important if you are an older person. Some of the things that you should keep a lookout for are:

Cables or electricity chords lying on the ground – they are not easy to spot, so someone can easily trip over them and get injured
Unnecessary clutter, such as items and boxes, impedes walkability
Items that have been left unattended for long periods of time may contain dust or mold, which are hazardous to people suffering from breathing problems
Dirty and cluttered spaces are a breeding ground for mice, roaches, and other pests which transmit various diseases

A conclusion on the mental health benefits of downsizing

Hopefully, by the end of this article, you will have understood that, although it is a challenging and exhausting thing to do, there are a lot of mental health benefits of downsizing. You should consider all of them and weigh your options before deciding to take this critical step. Lastly, consider that, apart from being emotionally challenging, downsizing is by no means a physically easy job. For this reason, another question is whether you need to hire a professional to help you during this time.

Picture Credits:
https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/young-courier-his-colleague-unloading-cardboard-boxes-from-delivery-van_25630693.htm#query=moving&position=2&from_view=search&track=sph
https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/top-view-messy-full-moving-boxes-room_15973330.htm#query=moving&position=3&from_view=search&track=sph
https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/woman-unpacking-brown-boxes-living-room_17056402.htm#query=senior%20moving%20out&position=4&from_view=search&track=ais
https://www.pexels.com/photo/adult-seamstress-sewing-order-on-sewing-machine-in-workroom-3852974/

Smart Home Devices for Seniors

Boomers are using electronic devices ans using them to find organizers and senior moving assistance If you are a senior, you are probably looking for anything that can make you more independent. It is understandable – nobody wants to always rely on somebody else. Moreover, if you are a senior, you are also probably looking for something that will make your life safer and more comfortable. Golden years can be tricky, especially if we are alone and have specific health problems. But what if we told you that there are certain smart home devices for seniors that can help you with all the things mentioned? Smart home devices are not only for young people – seniors can benefit from them too! Today, we will talk about different home devices for seniors. So, if you are a senior or know a senior who needs help, keep reading.

Devices for Remote Access

When you are a senior, you tend to forget where you placed certain things like remote controllers. And, sometimes, walking around the house looking for them, or just reaching them, can be quite a challenge. This is where smart home devices for seniors come in handy. Namely, there are many devices for remote access that you can use to control pretty much anything in your home – TV, radio, lights, thermostat, cameras, appliances, etc.

These smart home devices for remote control usually come in the form of a tablet (full of apps for remote control). And, as long as you carry that tablet with you, you can control any smart feature of your home, whether from your bed or the beach. For instance, if you have retired somewhere on the West Coast and spend your days sunbathing, you can turn on the AC in advance and come to a cool home. Or you can use that tablet to stay in touch with your loved ones constantly.

seniors are using smart devices to get help with de-cluttering, packing-unpacking and downsizing to move

Remote control smart home devices for seniors can be life-savers!

Alarms and Cameras

As mentioned above, some older adults decide to move to a senior home where they will be taken care of by professionals, and some decide to make some home renovations and age in place. If you opt for the second option and live alone, you will need to make your home safer. The best way to do that is to add security cameras and alarm systems.

Add a camera above all your ‘entry’ doors – that way, you can see who is at the door without even getting up. Then, have professionals install an alarm system you can use whenever you see a suspicious person on your camera. The best part about these smart home devices for seniors is that the previously mentioned devices can use them for remote access – you can use your cameras with your tablets and alert the police if necessary.

Smart Locks and Doorbells

Speaking of alarms and security cameras, it might also be a good idea to invest in some smart locks and doorbells. These can be used for safety reasons, but that does not have to be their only purpose. Namely, smart locks and doorbells (together with cameras) can be used to let somebody in (or out) without getting up. This can be very beneficial for seniors who have certain medical issues.

Moreover, these smart home devices should be necessary for seniors who moved alone to another home. They are a much safer option than the ‘regular’ locks and doorbells. That is, burglars will not be able to come inside easily as locks will notify you and the police that somebody is trying to get in without using the key. So, as soon as you move in, hire a team of experts who will install all these smart devices.

And, don’t try to do this yourself (if you don’t have experience). You might make a mistake that costs you much more than hiring experts. The same applies to moving to your new home. Seniors or their relatives should look for senior moving services in Irvine ahead of time, as an expert team can help with everything moving-related.

smart door locks can help protect seniors from unexpected intrusion

Biomedical Monitoring Devices

Seniors who have chronic medical conditions need to be monitored 24/7. They can be monitored by their care givers, children, or by themselves using the so-called biomedical monitoring devices. These devices show the person’s current state and send alerts to everybody if something is out of order. And, when we say everybody, we mean to you, your children, care givers, doctor, or anybody you decide.

There are different biomedical monitoring devices. Which one you will choose will depend on your health problem. But, let us mention some of the most useful smart home devices for seniors and their health:

Blood pressure cuff
Glucometer
ECG and Stethoscope
Pulse Oximeter
Activity trackers
Thermometer
Smart scale

Get yourself a biomedical monitoring device! It can save your life! Get the one you need even if you live with your children or with some other people – smart devices of this kind can tell that something is wrong with you before you notice it yourself. And, make sure you get it if you are relocating to a more desirable place alone – you never know what can happen when living alone, and this way, you will have some peace of mind.

senior moving can be help using smart devices to find appropriate services for senior moving

You can avoid many health problems with a biomedical monitoring device.

Mobility Assistants

At a certain age, walking becomes a problem. There are days when getting out of bed seems impossible. Luckily, with the advancement of technology, new mobility assistants have been created to help people with everyday things. Of course, those are usually wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, etc. But, some smart home devices can assist with getting out of bed. For example, that can be a remote-controlled bed – by changing its position using a remote control, you can get in and out of bed much easier. Or there are even things like robotic arms that can help with eating and drinking.

As you have seen, many smart home devices for seniors can ease everyday life, provide safety, and make it much more comfortable. Thus, don’t run away from technology – embrace it. You, and your loved ones, can benefit from all of these devices, so choose the ones you need and improve the quality of your lives.

Photos Used:
https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-in-blue-sweater-holding-silver-ipad-3783244/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/an-elderly-man-in-black-sweater-using-a-digital-tablet-7551585/
https://pixabay.com/photos/smart-home-door-security-control-4905021/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/adult-woman-checking-the-digital-blood-pressure-monitor-8088856/

Consider 5 Renovations When Aging in Place

There comes a time in everyone’s life when we have to start thinking about retirement. Some people decide to move to a senior’s home, some move to a smaller, more convenient home, and some decide to age in place. Aging in place is when you stay in the comfort of your home during the last chapter of your life. There are many benefits to doing this—you will not have to move, you will be close to everyone you love, etc. But, there, where there are pros, there are also cons.

Namely, aging in a home that was built for families is not going to be easy—you will have to deal with a lot of stairs, narrow doorways, multiple floors, and other things that you will start to look like obstacles. That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t consider aging in place; it only means that you should make some adjustments before you do. And, that will be our topic of the day—5 renovations to consider when again place. So, keep on reading if you, or your senior loved ones, want to age in place.

1. Create a Room Downstairs

The home you want to continue living in is probably your family home. That means that you have a lot of floors and a lot of stairs. And, that also means that your bedroom is upstairs. If we are right, then one of the first renovations to consider when aging in place is creating a room for yourself downstairs. That doesn’t have to be anything big or complex. After all, all you need in there is a bed and closet. Everything else you already have on your first floor (bathroom, kitchen, living room).

However, if you have a lot of stuff that you typically keep upstairs, and if you plan on continuing to use all of that, it might be a good idea to consider investing in some innovative home storage options for your first floor on time too!

Caption: A bedroom downstairs is a must for all seniors.

2. Modify the Bathroom

Next to your bedroom should be a bathroom, of course. There too, you should make some renovations when aging in place. The first thing you should do is replace your bathtub with a shower. Over time, getting in and out of the bath is going to become more and more complex, so be sure to do this before it comes to that. Then, it would also be a good idea to swap your current toilet for one that has a built-in bidet. And, don’t forget to add grab bars next to it.

If making these two changes (having a room downstairs and renovating the bathroom) is not an option, you should reconsider your decision to age in place. Getting up and down the stairs to sleep and using the bathroom may not be a problem now, but it will undoubtedly become a problem later. So, talk to your family about moving to a more convenient home. And, don’t worry about senior moving either—there are many moving companies that specialize in helping seniors move and do all other moving-related things.

3. Install Grab Bars and Handrails

But, we understand that it is still emotionally difficult to leave your home. If that is the case, you should consider renovating it so that it helps you move in a safe way. Going up and down the stairs is not only difficult, but it is also very dangerous. One wrong step and you can slip and fall. That will most likely result in a broken bone or two.

Prevent that from happening by installing grab bars and handrails everywhere around the house. You should install grab bars in your bathroom and maybe even next to your bed or sofa you like to sit in. Then, install handrails next to all staircases. Moreover, even if you are handy now, don’t tackle this (or any other) renovation alone. Learn to simplify it—hire a handyman or have your family member come and help you out. This will make renovation more convenient for everyone.

renovations and downsizing are better handled by professional organizers

4. Renovations to Consider when Aging in Place—Widen All the Doorways

Unfortunately, aging in place usually means having to use a wheelchair at a certain point. So, even if you are not using them now, you should be prepared for that possibility. The best way to do that is to, first, widen all the doorways. They must be 32 inches or wider to accommodate the wheelchair.

Moreover, when thinking about widening all the doorways, you should also consider leveling your floors. If you have just one step that is higher or lower than your floor, it will be impossible to use a wheelchair. So, talk to your contractor about this when talking about things you have to do to make your retirement property feel cozy and easy to use in your golden years.

making space, downsizing, renovations all of these cna be help iwht a professional organizer

5. Invest in Smart Technology

One of the last but certainly not least home renovations to consider when aging in place is investing in smart technology. You can age more practically and peacefully by letting technology work for you. Nowadays, there is not a thing that technology can’t do. For instance, it can help you:

Reach something
Check the fire
Control anything with your voice
Turn on the lights with a motion sensor

And maybe one of the best things about technology is that it can help you when there is a medical emergency. Namely, you can buy a sort of bracelet, the so-called PERS (a personal emergency response system), which has a button you can push whenever you feel something is wrong with your medical condition.

As you have seen, there are many renovations to consider when aging in place. We mentioned just the most important ones, but there are many more. It is crucial to think about them before you start feeling difficulty moving or before you get sick. So, talk to your family members and hire a contractor or a senior move manager who will handle the renovation process so that you can age in place and age in peace.

Photos Used:
https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-in-brown-long-sleeve-shirt-holding-a-white-mug-7328487/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-outstretching-arms-while-sitting-on-bed-8899494/
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How to Downsize as a Boomer: Make Your Retirement Property Feel Cozy

downsizing is a difficult task without getting some help from professional organizer and sr. movers

You recently decided to clear your home, put it on the market, and downsize into a smaller house for retirement. With the support of A Clear Path, tackling this process couldn’t be simpler!

Choosing to clear your old home and sell is a big step, and now that you’re getting settled into your new property, you want to make it truly feel like “home.” What can you do to personalize your new house and make the most of your smaller space? Here are a few ideas to get you inspired!

Take Care of Maintenance

Before you make any aesthetic changes to your home, you’ll need to complete the necessary repairs. If you’re concerned about any major maintenance issues in your home, such as structural problems with the foundation, a potential plumbing leak, or problems with your roof, you should contact a reputable contractor immediately. But if you’re only dealing with minor repairs, you can take a DIY approach. Extra Mile states that you should be able to change your HVAC filters, fix your toilets, and do basic yard work on your own.

Establish an Outdoor Living Space

Perhaps you don’t have as much space in your current home as you did in your old one – but you can basically “extend” this space by creating an outdoor “living room.” This is a great project if you enjoy hosting, especially when the weather is warm outside – your guests will be able to sit down, relax, and enjoy some fresh air at your gatherings.

How can you set up an outdoor living room? Gardenista recommends starting on a level surface, like a deck or flat ground. Next, you’ll want to:

Lay out a floor, like concrete pavers, if necessary.
Add hedges or garden beds around part of the perimeter.
Create a ceiling with a trellis or pergola.
Finally, choose sturdy, aesthetically pleasing furnishings!

Decorate Your Home

Once you’ve completed a few necessary maintenance tasks, you can move on to the fun projects, like decorating! For instance, you might want to head to a local thrift shop to pick up interesting artwork for low prices, add some houseplants in each room, or include some bright new lighting fixtures.

If you’d like to bring a little life to your bare walls, you could transform your walls with customizable wallpaper! Rather than using standard wallpaper, why not try a peel-and-stick option?

Use a professional to walk thru your home before you start to downsize and the work will be easier to complete

This variety of wallpaper has an adhesive backing, which makes it convenient to apply. If you’re not happy with your first application, you can remove it and reapply it. And by ordering wallpaper printed on-demand, you’ll have the opportunity to customize your design – which means that you won’t have to worry about your preferred pattern being out of stock!

Clear and Organize Your Home Garage

Your garage can serve lots of purposes – in addition to storing your car, you could also set up a hobby workbench, use it for storage, or even turn it into a home gym. But in order to actually use your garage and get the benefits of this extra space, you need to declutter and organize it first.

Once you’ve gotten rid of any items in your garage that you no longer need, you’ll want to set up some storage systems so that you can keep your remaining belongings organized:

Shelves can help you get organized without using floor space.
Wall cubbies can be used to store shoes, outerwear, and more.
If you already have storage tubs, you can label and stack them.
Pegboards are great for hanging tools or other supplies.

Downsize Your Closet as a Boomer

Chances are, you’ve accumulated lots of clothing, shoes, and accessories over the past few decades. Perhaps you were reluctant to toss out part of your wardrobe before you moved – after all, you might have thought you would start wearing some of your old clothes again. But at a certain point, maintaining a large wardrobe becomes more trouble than it’s worth, and you will probably benefit from clearing it out.

If you need to sort through lots of clothes, here’s how to tackle the process:

Be honest with yourself – if you haven’t worn a particular item in a year, it’s time for it to go!
Clothes that are in good condition can be given to friends or relatives or donated to charity.
If you’re letting go of some items that are ripped or stained, they should simply be thrown away.
Organize your remaining clothes by color or style.

Create an Entertainment Room

Do you love watching movies or catching a few episodes of your favorite TV show? Do you ever wish you could watch them on the big screen without going all the way to a movie theater? If you have the available space in your new home, you could create an entertainment room!

easing stress is on the way when you use a professional to help downsize your home.

There’s nothing quite like having your very own home theater. Your guests will definitely be impressed! To set up a home theater, you’ll need the right technology, such as a large flat-screen TV and a great sound system. You’ll also want to get comfortable seating for a few people. You can even buy seats that have cup holders and tray tables that fold out so people can enjoy snacks and drinks while they watch movies.

Design a “Zen Corner”

When you retired, did you hope to spend more time practicing self-care? If so, you could create a relaxing “zen corner” in your home:

Add a couple of yoga mats and a meditation cushion.
Choose artwork that makes you feel relaxed and calm when you look at it.
You could even bring in a small speaker so that you can play soothing music.
A decorative water fountain could also be a nice touch.

You can personalize your zen corner to your tastes – after all, it’s your place to escape when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

You want to love where you live in retirement. If you’re a boomer who has recently chosen to clear your old home and downsize, you might feel a little out of place by now. But by embarking on some of these renovation projects, you’ll be able to get comfortable in your new home and give it a cozier feel.

Are you ready to clear out your estate and move somewhere new? A Clear Path can get the job done! Call us today at 818-400-9592 to get started.

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How to Successfully Buy a House Remotely

By Scott Russell

Today, it’s amazing how much business we can conduct in the comfort of wherever we are. People can shop online, carry out banking activities, and work from home remotely. Things have gone a step further because you can now even buy a house remotely.

There are many reasons why someone would want to buy a house remotely. According to the New York Times, about 63% of buyers made an offer on a home they hadn’t seen in the months of November and December 2020. In addition, 75% of millennial homebuyers are now working remotely because of the pandemic, and 63% of this population admit that their home search is motivated by the fact they have become remote workers.

If you’re a buyer looking for your next home, this spells wonderful news in many ways, but of course, you need to be cautious throughout the process. The convenience of online transactions is often tempered by its risks, but it’s possible to secure a positive outcome if you do your due diligence and you have an experienced real estate agent assisting you.

With that in mind, here’s what you need to know to buy a house remotely and successfully.

Partner With the Right Agent

The importance of finding the right agent can’t be overstated, and this is typically the first step if you want to ensure a successful home-buying experience. That’s because when you’re buying a house remotely, you still need an agent that can vet the place for you and give you the first-hand details you need to know. In a nutshell, here’s what you need to consider when choosing the best agent.

Local agent. The agent should be closely familiar with the neighborhood and the community, the available amenities, and other interesting tidbits. They can also help provide information about the best local lenders and home inspectors in the area.
Experience. The agent should have sufficient experience with the remote home buying process. This ensures that the agent will be able to walk you through the process and explain any technologies that may be needed to make the process smoother. Experienced real estate agents are more likely to find the most suitable properties and negotiate a better price for you.
Availability. Buying real estate remotely requires a lot of back and forth, so it’s essential that the agent should have enough time for out-of-town clients. The agent needs to be available both during business hours and after hours so that everything can move forward quickly.

communication with your RE agent and move manager is important Once you have established that the real estate agent will be available as your proxy during crucial times and they have the right experience and knowledge, be sure to communicate with your agent as much as possible. No matter how experienced your agent is, they won’t be able to find the perfect property for you unless you’re very specific about your preferences and what you’re looking for when you buy a house remotely.

Therefore, it’s important to sit down and come up with a detailed wish list. When you share this wish list with your agent, they should be able to narrow down the search using factors such as pricing, square footage, the style and age of the home, and location. Other details like the number of bedrooms and bathrooms and whether or not the home has a basement also matter.

Be sure to also communicate about your deal-breakers so the agent doesn’t waste time chasing after the wrong listings. If your wish list changes at any point or you have any other concerns, don’t hesitate to let your agent know.

Find Out What Every Step Entails Before You Buy a House Remotely

While it’s true that an agent can be very helpful when you’re buying a home remotely, it still doesn’t hurt to do your own research. Here are some things to keep in mind.

The offer. Be sure you understand the necessary offer terms for your state. You can review these with your agent so that when the time comes to make an offer, you’re already thinking about what to include in the offer. It’s very possible for negotiations to happen when the buyer and seller are long distance. Again, technology plays a crucial role and offers many communication channels, such as email, phone calls, and video conferencing.
Appraisal. Your lender will also need to do an appraisal to secure financing when you buy a house remotely. Fortunately, the appraisal process isn’t too complicated and can be done without your physical presence. Usually, the value of a property is determined by comparing it with similar properties in the area that have recently sold or are on the market.
Home Inspection. Your agent can schedule a home inspection without you being present. Be sure to ask the agent and inspector to call you at the end of the inspection to discuss any major findings. You can also review the inspector’s report to get a better understanding of all the physical aspects of the home.
Title review. You will also need to do a title review so you are aware of the property’s ownership history and any restrictions that apply.
Closing. This is the last step in the home buying process, and if you’re doing it remotely, you’ll be able to sign some paperwork online. The good news is your electronic signature is as legally binding as if you had signed the papers in person. Once your e-signature is in place, the documents are sent back to the other party. If a physical signature is required, such as in the case of notarized documents, the necessary documents will be FedExed. The most important part of the closing process is the wiring of funds to complete the transaction. From there, you will be ready for the move!

trus your RE agent to understand the local market place and choose wise for pack & unpack Even when all is said and done, be sure to do a final walkthrough – either yourself or through your agent’s camera – to confirm that the home is in good condition and everything is above board. Before you close on your home and after you make your offer, you’ll have time to do a final evaluation and be sure any agreed-upon repairs have been completed.

Some states allow an official due diligence period for home buyers. However, if your state doesn’t, you may have other contract contingencies that will protect you in the event you find a major issue with the house or the appraisal.. That way, you’re free to back out of the contract or renegotiate with the seller.

The good thing about this contingency period is that it allows you to review title documents, complete the financing process, and do other tasks before closing. You can also take this time to visit and view the property in person and conduct a thorough inspection before committing.

Learn the Tips and Tricks for Online House Hunting

To buy a house remotely in the past was unthinkable, but now it’s more than possible. Beyond the official steps you need to take, it’s also important to learn all the tips and tricks that help this process become a success. For instance, before you make your offer, your agent will give you a virtual tour of the property.

You need to be alert and vigilant during this process. Instead of trusting the photos, make sure the agent walks you through every part of the property during your video chat. Make notes so you can go over them later. Don’t be shy about asking your agent to go over a certain area again or open doors, check appliances, and test light switches.

Since nothing compares to an in-person inspection, you should also ask your agent to point out other details, such as musty odors and temperature details. Another thing you should do ahead of time is create a house hunting checklist so you don’t miss out on anything important in the process.

The Bottom Line

Buying a home remotely works well for out-of-state real estate investors, those who are buying a second home, and anyone buying a home on behalf of a loved one, such as in the case of senior relocation. Plus, when the home-buying process is over and ready to move in, you can hire organizing services and relocation specialists to help make your move go as smoothly as possible. Overall, finding the right real estate agent and learning all you can about the home-buying process is key to a successful deal.

About the Author

Scott Russell is the owner and broker-in-charge of Freestone Properties located in Asheville, NC. Freestone Properties has the ability to help you buy a beautiful mountain home in Asheville or Black Mountain remotely, so contact us today!

Here’s How a Senior Move Manager Can Simplify Your Move

When someone you love is going through a difficult transition in life, it’s only natural to want to help.

Older adults face complex challenges when it’s time to downsize and move. As mobility and health concerns create new limitations, many of them feel anxious and depressed. They may chafe at the idea that anything needs to change. All the while, however, the world around them becomes more difficult to navigate.

Aging can present real challenges to a person’s identity and sense of self. It’s not necessarily the case that they don’t see that anything needs to change. Rather, the scope of what needs to be done can become so huge, they feel overwhelmed. Admitting that they need help gets harder, but so does setting the situation right.

You want what’s best for your loved one. And you can see that the way things are is unsustainable.

The solution is expert help from a senior move manager.

What Is a Senior Move Manager?

Moving management is a growing field that helps thousands of people with their big moves every year. There is no one central body that governs the practice of moving management, so you want to be sure you choose a qualified senior move manager from an organization you can trust.

A senior move manager is more than just a “moving company.” In moving management, the goal is to foresee any kind of problem that could arise throughout the moving process. By recognizing issues and taking action before they start, a move manager smooths the path for seniors to make the right long-term choices.

On top of understanding moving as a process, your moving management team leader should have compassion and empathy for seniors. Physical, emotional, and psychological support are all indispensable to deliver a successful move without leaving a senior feeling like his or her life is spinning out of control.

Senior Moving Management with Compassion

Old items of clothing, end tables, mirrors, books, and keepsakes. These may not look like much at a glance. But items like this can have profound sentimental value to a senior. “Obvious” things like photographs are not the only belongings that need to be protected, especially if the older adult has lived in a home for many years.

Sometimes, especially if they feel emotionally isolated from others, elders can develop “pack rat” tendencies. Over time, this may grow into a problem. In a cluttered, chaotic environment, seniors are more likely to suffer physical injury. They might slip and fall or be struck by debris. While most people do try to maintain pathways from one room to another, these can be difficult to navigate and may be especially hazardous if there is a fire or other disaster.

Whatever the case, move management should start with an assessment of the environment and the senior’s needs. It is impossible – and cruel – to simply sweep through a home and destroy or dispose of everything in sight. The right items must be preserved in accordance with the senior’s desires and future living space.

Seven Key Parts of Moving Management for Older Adults

Helping a senior move can be an immense, complicated, and lonely undertaking. Your senior move manager is the ally who makes it easier. They will consistently move the project forward to completion while keeping you updated. You’ll always have the details you need to make informed decisions.

Comprehensive moving management should include all of the following:

1. Clutter Assessment

If a senior has had difficulty cleaning or organizing possessions from a long and eventful life, clutter assessment, is a necessary first step. This helps ensure that hazards are removed, paths are cleared, and important items are identified as early as possible. This also provides peace of mind throughout the rest of the process, since it will be easier to navigate the space while waiting for moving day to arrive.

2. Shredding

It’s not unusual to accumulate lots of paperwork over the years. Even outdated correspondence can pose a risk of identity theft for seniors. It’s never wise to simply throw such items out: They can easily be retrieved from the trash by unscrupulous characters who notice your moving preparations. A complete process of shredding can eliminate this risk. It also helps highlight the items you may wish to scan, copy, or put away safely.

3. Electronics

Many seniors have a fraught relationship with electronics. Moving management makes it easier by identifying items that are still useful and separating out the rest. Old electronics can be dangerous, containing toxic batteries and environmentally unfriendly materials with very specific rules surrounding their disposal. Your move manager should have all the resources on-site to make sure these are safely eliminated early on.

4. Packing

Packing looms large in any move, but it’s especially crucial in moving management for the older adult. Items must be packed carefully and in accordance with an unpacking plan. This ensures that any items needed right away become available within an hour after moving. Packing coincides with staging items on the premises so they can be moved based on their order of importance, with nothing damaged or misplaced along the way

5. Moving

It’s a big milestone when people and possessions are safely underway to their destination! Before departure, your moving management leader will perform another site assessment – this time at the new home. Any equipment that may be needed, like trash receptacles, are moved in. Depending on your needs, your moving team can start setting up the new home hours or days before your official arrival.

6. Unpacking

Unpacking is just as vital as packing, and it has to be done right. One way that unpacking differs in senior moving management is that it’s a step toward organizing, where everything is set up better than new. During the unpacking phase, all your carefully marked boxes are set up and unpacked in each room. Clothes can be placed in dressers or hung up, beds made, and many other services performed that average movers won’t do.

7. Organizing

Imagine a concierge service that leaves your living space immaculate, arranged in ways that are even more convenient than you could have thought up after the ordeal of moving. That’s the objective of the organizing phase, where seniors can settle into an environment that’s warm and welcoming. After organizing is done, everything in the new living space is better than new and it’s like the whole moving process never happened.

A Clear Path Makes the Impossible Possible for Your Most Important Move

We know what you might be thinking: This is a tall order!

It takes moving management professionals years of experience to learn all the ins and outs of helping a senior achieve a seamless and ultimately peaceful move. You want this to be the best move of your loved one’s life, but with everything else on your mind and the demands on your time and energy, you shouldn’t do it alone.

Contact A Clear Path for personalized advice. We look forward to helping you and your loved one soon.

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7 Tips for Moving Cross Country in 2021

Most people cherish the warmth and coziness of their familiar homes. But sometimes, with a fantastic new job or a house offer on the horizon, one starts considering a long-distance relocation. Relocations are never easy, particularly the cross-country ones. There is a lot of emotional and physical tension to face. And, suddenly, everything seems strange and unfamiliar. The last year and the COVID-19 pandemic have brought us even more stress and anxiety. Most of us prefer either staying home or have resorted to relocating to more secluded places. With so many things going on, it’s no wonder that moving management has developed into a significant field over the years. Today it is nearly impossible to move without professional relocation, productivity, and organizing services. Keeping yourself informed is another paramount of today’s society, especially before significant life changes. So, here are our seven valuable tips for moving cross country in 2021.

Moving cross country should be coordinated with a senior move manager for the best success.

1. Make time your ally and not your enemy

Our lives are a constant race with time. But once you realize that the key is in making that a motivational factor and not a reason for despair, you will get a significant advantage. So how can you make the time work for you the best way?

Plan your cross country move well ahead.
Make a detailed plan with your and other’s responsibilities with at least rough dates and timings.
Stick to written timings as much as you can.
Always leave some buffer time for unforeseen circumstances.

By planning on time, you give yourself a significant advantage

tools for planning moving cross country in 2021- a watch, pens, and a planning document from a move manager 2. Proper planning and organization

More than half of your relocation is in proper planning and organization. Every move, including the cross country one, can be divided into several stages, tasks, and duties. If every one of them is executed according to a detailed plan, the outcome should be satisfactory. Some of the crucial stages of every move to consider and account for are:

Preparation stage– includes planning, calculations, supplies gathering, etc.
Downsizing stage– at this stage, you need to declutter and organize your rooms and your belongings. When moving across the country, no one can afford to bring every single item with them. Besides, starting life over means a lot of new things will come your way.
Packing stage– at this stage, you should decide which of the remaining items to pack and bring along and which to recycle and donate. The final priority lists are made, and careful packing and protection of your belongings take place.
The transportation stage– the stage when all your belongings are being transported to their new location. Professional moving personnel usually conducts it.
Unpacking stage– the final stage of your cross-country move in 2021. Once you unpack all your boxes, you have officially moved.

3. Make moving cross country in 2021 as easy as you can

The best way to do that is by hiring relocation specialists, of course. Luckily, nowadays, there are numerous moving services that various companies provide for your convenience. Some of them have even specialized the interstate and cross country moves. These can turn such a tiring undertaking, as a cross-country move is, into a breeze and are, therefore, your best option. Furthermore, their services are carefully categorized. Whether you are moving your home or office, they have the appropriate tools and strategies for you. So, why would you struggle with so much work and responsibilities when, for a reasonable price, you can save a lot of time and effort? Practice self-care during a move and ease the relocation on yourself whenever you can.

4. Prepare your future home

Your cross-country relocation will be more pleasant once you know that your new home is waiting for you perfectly prepared. So whether you hire professional cleaning and home organizing services, or you prefer making your new house feel more like home by yourself, it would be superb if all is ready before you move in. That way, not only can you relax upon arrival, but you will be better motivated along the way.

Additional health tip for a cross country move in 2021

Amid the pandemic, it is essential to keep hygiene in mind throughout the move. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of your new house, plus careful disinfection of all the boxes, before and after the transportation, should suffice. And don’t forget to wash your hands as often as possible.

a move manager will help pack and unpack better if they have space plans for the new residence.

Thoroughly disinfect and prepare your new home before moving cross country in 2021

5. Prepare for the long road ahead, especially when moving cross country in 2021

And while your belongings are in safe hands, you should not forget about your well-being either. Keep in mind that the road is long, and packing an essentials bag is a must. It will prove invaluable during the trip. You should have the essentials with you at all times as they will help you have as comfortable a relocation as possible. A bottle of water, some energizing snacks, personal documentation, and some spare clothes are a must. Everything else is up to your preferences and needs.

6. Provide special care for special cases

If you are helping your senior family member relocate to a more peaceful town somewhere across the state, they will also need help handling such a stressful and demanding situation as this one. Senior moves and downsizing require special attention and care, so you need to make sure find the right movers that offer senior relocation services. Similarly, if your kid is moving out to go to university, you can research companies that provide assistance for this type of relocation. A team of specially trained, trustworthy, and kind movers can ease these specific relocations to a great extent.

a successful move is enhanced when using a certified move manager

Make your seniors happy and at peace by organizing professional senior relocation services for them.

7. Don’t underestimate the unpacking part

When thoroughly organizing moving cross country, people tend to underestimate the unpacking stage. However, the relocation does not end with your belongings transported to your new home. You still need to unwrap everything and find a suitable space for every piece. You certainly want your new home to be well organized and comfortable. Here too, you have two options. You can spend days unpacking and arranging your stuff, or you can hire unpacking services; it is entirely up to you.

Final words

Moving cross country in 2021 is not an easy task. On the other hand, it can be a memorable and enjoyable adventure with adequate strategies and help. So stop postponing it and embrace the experience instead. Remember, the sooner you start, the sooner you can enjoy your new home.

Using a Checklist before downsizing will create an easier less stressful move

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3 Ways to Practice Self-Care During a Move

While moving to a new home can be an exciting event and an opportunity for a fresh start, it can also be extremely stressful. Packing, cleaning, unpacking, then cleaning again. It feels like a never ending process. This is especially true for seniors, who may not be able to do all the “heavy lifting,” when it comes to the end to end process of the move. The good news is, there are many ways in which you can combat and stress and get through the moving process with ease.

Accredited Sr. move manage shoud always be used when when moving boomers and other seniors. Below, we’ve compiled a list of ideas to help the senior community navigate the relocation process. Keep reading for a few tips on how you can practice self-care during your next move.

Hire Professionals

Whether you’re moving to a new home and plan to take all of your belongings with you, or you’re downsizing to a smaller space and are only packing the essentials, hiring a professional moving company is a great way to take the stress off your shoulders as well as your families. When searching for the right moving company for you, you’ll want to consider the following:

Price: Is this company within your budget? If so, what are they able to provide you for the price you want to pay? If not, are there specific items on your list you can omit in order for them to be more affordable? These are just a few of the questions you should ask yourself before making a final decision. Sure, price is quite important, but quality is key if you truly want to make this a stress-free experience.
Customer Service: Before signing any type of contract, you want to do your research. Check into the company website and take a look at their reviews page. If they have received a lot of positive feedback based on their past work, you may feel more comfortable choosing them. On the other hand, if the reviews aren’t so great, or there’s none at all, consider keeping your search going and look into some other options. If you’re not super tech savvy, you can always check around with people you know and go with a company based on word of mouth recommendations. This is, afterall, the best form of advertising! Be mindful of the fact that seniors can be taken advantage of in situations like this and do not let your guard down.
Licenses and Insurance: When hiring movers, it’s crucial you ensure they have their own insurance and licensing. Any reputable company will carry their own property damage and cargo policy which deems them liable should anything happen to any of your belongings during the move. Movers should also protect their employees by providing some type of workers compensation policy should they get hurt on the job. This also protects you from any liability should an accident happen.
Equipment: This is especially important if you’re planning to move heavier items such as televisions, washing machines, or any other items that need to be handled with extra care. Sure, a bunch of people may be able to lift these items, but how safe are they really being? The right equipment includes box carts, elastic moving strips and even a small forklift depending on the size of the items. In addition, you’ll want to consider what types of vehicles this company has to offer and if their size is conducive to your items.

Embrace Convenience

When you’re in the midst of a move, or even once you’ve settled into your new home, the last thing you want to do is worry about is an everyday task such as grocery shopping. If you don’t feel like heading out to a store, or simply don’t have time, utilize a grocery delivery service to stock your new space with your everyday essentials. You’d be shocked at just how many items are available for delivery. From bread and milk to cleaning supplies, and even vitamins and over the counter medications, the list goes on and on. Having everything delivered to you, and in a timely fashion, will lend you more free time to get settled in your new space.

Another great way to embrace convenience during your move is hiring a person or a company that specializes in home organizing services. Regardless of whether it’s to help you with packing and unpacking or decluttering, you want to start out in your new space on the right foot from an organizational standpoint. After you’ve lived somewhere for so long, it’s normal to accumulate many items. Sometimes these items can hold sentimental value, making it more difficult to part with them.

That said, it is important to recognize what items you should save and which items you should consider donating or recycling. If you’re curious as to what items can and cannot be recycled or donated, check out our list here. If you feel your problem with holding onto things is more serious, check out our page on chronic disorganization.

Utilize Estate Clearing Services

Sometimes, the move we’re making isn’t always one we make by choice or we’re not able to be hands on in the moving process at all. This is the perfect Professional in moving, packing and unpacking eases stress and quickens the entire process opportunity to utilize Estate Clearing Services. Our team provides compassionate and professional care during these critical circumstances and anyone should feel safe knowing we treat your belongings as if they are our own. Families of those who receive our estate clearing services can rest assured that we will handle all items with care and follow directions when it comes to heirlooms and anything else that carries out your desires to preserve your family legacy.

The estate clearing team can assist in any cleaning and decluttering you’d like done as well. This will make the moving process much smoother as you’ll be able to identify the items you’d like to take along with you to your new home as well as those you’d like to sell or donate. To learn more about estate settlement, check out this article from our blog.

Moving on to a new residence can drum up a number of emotions. At Clear Path, we know that moving can signify the beginning of one chapter and the end of another. We’d like to do everything we can to help you throughout this process. We also think it’s important to treat yourself kindly and embrace convenience as much as possible. If you’re a senior considering a move, don’t hesitate to contact us directly to learn more about the ways we can help you!