Downsizing sounds simple: less space, less stuff, less to manage. But if you’re like many of my clients, you’ve already figured out it’s not always that easy. When you’re moving out of a home you’ve built memories in—especially if you’ve been there for decades—downsizing can bring up a mix of emotions and logistical roadblocks.

So let’s talk about what not to do.

1. Don’t Declutter All at Once

Trying to declutter the entire house in one weekend? That’s a fast track to burnout. Downsizing means sorting through years—sometimes a lifetime—of belongings. You can’t do it all at once, and you don’t have to.

Start small. Go room by room. Focus on what you actually use or need in your next space. Give yourself time and space to let go without the pressure of doing it perfectly or quickly.

2. Don’t Skip the Emotional Work

Downsizing isn’t just about the boxes—it’s about the memories. Your home holds your stories, and saying goodbye to them can be harder than expected. If you find yourself stuck, that’s normal.

The key is to acknowledge the emotional side of moving. Talk through it with a friend, a family member, or even a professional. Don’t push yourself to “just get over it.” This is a real transition.

3. Don’t Settle for a Home That Doesn’t Fit Your New Lifestyle

One of the biggest mistakes I see is people rushing into a new space that doesn’t actually work for how they want to live now. Downsizing doesn’t mean downgrading. It means being intentional about what matters to you.

Whether it’s walkability, less maintenance, or being closer to family, your next home should align with this next chapter—not the last one.

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Thinking about downsizing? Let me know if you’d like more tips on how to make the process easier, more organized, and less stressful. I’m here to help.