Whether you are moving into a smaller home, simplifying your lifestyle, or preparing for retirement, downsizing can be both exciting and overwhelming. While a smaller home can means less chaos and unpacking, this type of move requires careful planning to have it be smooth and efficient.
The biggest downsize my husband and I did was from a home that had almost 4000 sqft of living sapce, down to a condo that was 1023 sq ft. And then from a 1150sqft condo to a 26 ft truck.
Here are four practical tips that helped us downsize with more ease and confidence.
1. Sell As Much of Your Furniture Before You Move
One of the biggest mistakes people make when downsizing their home is paying to move furniture they ultimately can’t use (or store) on/in the property. Months before moving day, take inventory of what you own and decide what will come into the new home vs what needs to be sold, gifted or donated. Decluttering will be your most useful skill.
Once you have this list, pick a price tag for each item and start selling pieces on Facebook Marketplace, local buy-and-sell groups, or through garage sales. Not only will you reduce moving costs, but you’ll also earn extra money that can be put toward your new home or purchasing furniture that better suits your new space.
During our big downsize we sold a large majority of our belongings- from couches to guest beds, patio and office furniture, rugs and art. All this helped us make $12,000 to go towards our closing costs and moving expenses.
2. Be Mindful of Furniture Size
Just because your favourite sectional fit perfectly in your current living room it does not mean it will fit in your next one. Ensure your REALTOR has provided you with an accurate floor plan with measurements or that they book a property walkthrough where you can measure room by room.
Pay close attention to hallways, staircases, doorways, and elevators if you’re moving into a condo or apartment. We missed this step and ended up with some wall damage getting our 3 seater couch into the condo. We have also helped neighbours have to cut legs off couches and watch them carry furniture up several flights of stairs because the elevator could not fit an odd shape.
Taking measurements ahead of time can save you from frustration and stress on moving day. It will also help your new space not look overcrowded and small.
3. Think Ahead About Storage Solutions
Downsizing often means having less closet space, fewer cabinets, and a smaller garage or basement (or none at all). Planning for storage before you move will help you stay organized from day one.
Look for multifunctional furniture like ottomans with hidden storage, beds with built-in drawers, or shelving that maximizes vertical space. It’s also a great opportunity to declutter and keep only the items you truly use and enjoy.
Remember, downsizing isn’t about squeezing everything into a smaller space—it’s about creating a home that feels comfortable, functional, and free of unnecessary clutter.
4. Focus on Your New Lifestyle, Not Just the Square Footage
A smaller home can offer big benefits; less time spent cleaning and maintaining your property means more time for family, travel, hobbies, or simply enjoying life.
As you make decisions about what to keep, ask yourself whether each item supports the lifestyle you want moving forward. Let your future needs guide your choices rather than holding onto things “just in case”. All the seasonal decorations or boxes of sentimental items that have not been looked through in decades? Let them go (or at least significantly downsize them).
Downsizing doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a little planning, realistic expectations, and a willingness to let go of what no longer serves you, your move can become an exciting fresh start. If you are not sure you can do this alone, find a friend to lend a hand. There are also professional companies that can assist with this type of big transition.
If you’re considering downsizing and would like advice on preparing your home for sale or finding the right property size for you, I’d be happy to help you every step of the way.
Ashley Bergner –
REALTOR
587-600-3332
Bergner Real Estate 
Leave a comment