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As you prepare to move into a beautiful and active retirement community, take a look around your current residence. Most retirees choose not to move all of their homes’ contents into their senior living condominiums and apartments because they simply don’t have the space. If you’re interested in downsizing, use these culling tips to get started.

4 Sorting Tips for Downsizing Retirees

1. Visit Your New Space

Spend a little time in your selected retirement community space to get an idea of where your belongings will go. Think about the items in your current residence that won’t have a place in your new apartment, such as that old, bulky ski equipment you haven’t used in years. The more you know about the space you’re working with, the easier it will be to go through everything.

2. Sort Unsentimental Items First

Start with items that hold no emotional attachment, such as assorted small appliances you won’t need or garden tools that come in ample supply at your retirement community. Focus on duplicate items as well as any collections you have—are there pieces that have sustained serious damage or are otherwise worn? Recycle and throw out these items unless some of them can be given away.

3. Make Giveaway Categories

retirement communityCreate giveaway categories to further help you decide what to keep and what to get rid of. Use large bins to house items you intend to sell on eBay or similar sites as well as belongings you can make some money on at a yard sale. Also, use bins for items you wish to give to friends and family. Have some fun going through belongings with your loved ones and discussing the memories attached to each item.

4. Take Your Time

Give yourself six weeks to two months or more to sort your house so you don’t feel rushed and end up getting rid of things you wanted to keep. If you aren’t certain about an item that doesn’t hold a lot of sentimental value, ask yourself if it would do better in the hands of someone else who will really use it. When every item has received due consideration, you’ll feel wonderful about downsizing. 

 

Cathedral Towers welcomes seniors ages 62 and up who want to enjoy independent living without the hassle of maintaining a large home. The retirement community in the heart of Midtown Atlanta, GA, offers spacious apartments and access to a variety of recreational activities, including organized hiking excursions. Call (404) 231-3020 today to schedule a tour of the gardens and units. Visit the website to learn more about this vibrant source of independent senior living.

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