Now that you’ve decided to move from your home to a condominium, here are ten steps to simplify the moving process:

• A few of your favourite things
  • Be realistic about what you can bring with you. Bring only the things that hold the most memories such as photographs and personal treasures.
• A place for everything
  • You will have less space, so think very carefully about where your possessions will go. Start with the floor plan. Build your furniture around your favourite place to sit. The biggest mistake is to bring too much.
• Sorting
  • Start sorting early, but limit it to a couple of hours a day. Create 3 piles; things to keep; thing for family and friends; and third for donation or recycling.
• Allow yourself time to say goodbye
  • Take the time to go through your lifetime possessions.
  • Share or reminisce about the memories with family member or friend. It is the hardest part of downsizing, but the most important part.
• Things at the back of the closet
  • If you haven’t worn or used items for a long time, it’s probably a good time to let them go.
• What to do with what is left
  • Charities, your local place of worship and antique dealers will often take things. Finally, there are firms that will haul the rest away at a cost.
• Book your moving date
  • Get quotes and references from several movers. Book your move for the morning and mid-week when it is less hectic.
• Keep track of what you pack
  • As you are packing, keep an inventory list of what goes in each box and label what room it is going in.
• Moving day
  • Set aside valuables, medication and important papers. Transport these yourself.
• Enjoy your new home
  • By planning ahead, you can have a successful move and start enjoying your new home from the day you move in.