Smart Steps
Women business leaders and entrepreneurs from various industries share their tips and advice in a "quick read format" on a variety topics.
Topic: Downsizing: Cleaning Up & Clearing Out
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Colleen Ashe PMP®, CPO®, SMM-C®, brings order to your chaos with kindness and a bit of humor that makes any organizing task less daunting. From downsizing seniors to getting homes “listing ready,” Colleen does the “heavy lifting,” leaving clients feeling lighter and breathing easier.
Nicknamed “Mrs. Clean” by her siblings, Colleen was born with post-it notes and Sharpie in hand. Some of her earliest memories revolve around de-cluttering and streamlining systems on the home front: broom closets, attics and garages were no match for Colleen – no task was too big or too small. She graduated to “right-sizing” projects with ease and loved working with her grandparents by her side. Colleen is uniquely qualified with dual certifications in project management and professional organizing. She can bring order and focus to your senior move projects. |
Turning the proverbial page on a calendar to a fresh, new year can stir up many emotions – from the excitement of new happenings to the dread of feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to begin. If you think 2022 might be the year for a BIG move, here are some timely tips to give you a head start and help you live your best year yet.
Getting Started: Some Helpful Do’s
Getting Started: Some Helpful Don’ts
Recommendation: The National Association of Senior Move Managers is a great place to start. They have a terrific Rolodex of vetted resources, easing the stress of clearing out a home.
Getting Started: Some Helpful Do’s
- DO START the conversation! Simply starting the downsizing conversation with family and friends can bring great peace of mind to all. Discuss your thoughts on rightsizing to a new home. Share your desired timeframe and ask for any help you may need through the process.
- DO TOUR senior residence communities in your area to get a feel for lifestyle, amenities offered, and any associated costs. Gathering information can help you weigh your options.
- DO SORT the spaces you currently use. Whether your plan is near-term or not, clearing the clutter that so easily accumulates will give you a fresh perspective on your next move. Toss or recycle items that are broken, stained or expired. Consider donating those items you no longer need, use or want.
- DO RESEARCH the secondhand market in your area. Take a peek at what donation centers and local auction houses are accepting and selling. This can be an eye-opening experience!
- DO MAKE a plan to tackle any home maintenance issues that are keeping you up at night. Problems don’t disappear, even when we try to ignore them. If it’s broken, get it fixed – or at least get an estimate for the repair(s).
- DO KEEP hallways and stairwells clear to avoid falls. A fall can do more than bruise your ego; it can have life-altering consequences. Fall prevention is a smart strategy.
Getting Started: Some Helpful Don’ts
- DON’T WAIT until there is an unexpected health event to get you to think about downsizing. Instead, think ahead and adjust your plans to meet your future needs.
- DON’T STORE others’ prized possessions that they “simply can’t live without” but refuse to collect from your attic, basement or childhood bedroom. Adult children need to collect their items and store them at their home, or properly dispose of them.
- DON’T BELIEVE life is over simply because you’ve downsized and simplified your living environment. There are many positive aspects of leaving behind a home that no longer serves you. Consider creating a video of your home, walking through each room and relaying a favorite memory. Fortunately, your memories come with you at no cost!
- DON’T FORGET to ask for help! From getting your home listing ready to welcoming a move team and reviewing a customized move plan, there are great resources to help you every step of the way.
Recommendation: The National Association of Senior Move Managers is a great place to start. They have a terrific Rolodex of vetted resources, easing the stress of clearing out a home.
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