Quick answer
To downsize, start with the floor plan of the new home, then sort one room at a time into keep, family, sell, donate and discard. Begin with the least emotional spaces (garage, linen closet), save photos and keepsakes for last, and give family a deadline to claim items. Give yourself weeks, not days. A senior move manager can run the process if it's too much. (800) 614-8388 for help near you.
Step by step
- Measure the new space. Get the floor plan and decide where the bed, chair and table will go. That decides what furniture moves.
- Set a timeline working back from the move date. A full house often needs several weeks.
- Start small and easy: a hall closet, the garage, the guest room. Early wins build momentum.
- Use five piles: keep, family, sell, donate, discard. Label them clearly.
- Ask family to claim items by a date, and to pick them up. Unclaimed items go to sale or donation.
- Save the hardest for last: photos, letters, keepsakes. Go slowly and together.
- Digitize some photos and papers to keep the memories without the boxes.
- Handle the rest with an estate sale, donation pickup or cleanout.
How to decide what to keep
- Does it fit in the new home and get used weekly?
- Does it hold a memory that matters? Keep the best one, not all of them.
- Would a grandchild want it? Ask; don't assume.
- Is it worth more than the cost of moving it?
Things that tend to be worth more than families expect: hand tools, mid-century furniture, costume jewelry, watches, coins, vinyl records and military items. Things that tend to be worth less: large dark wood furniture sets, formal china and crystal.
Taking care of feelings
Downsizing can feel like losing a life's story. Let your parent tell the story of an object before deciding. Take photos of things that won't move. Keep decisions in their hands as much as possible. If siblings disagree, a neutral move manager can help.
Get help when it's too much
A senior move manager can sort, plan, pack, move and clear the house. It's often worth it when family is far away or time is short.
Overwhelmed by a full house?
We'll connect you with move managers and estate sale help near you. Free.
Questions families ask
Where do I start when downsizing?
With the floor plan of the new home and the easiest room in the old one.
How long does downsizing take?
It depends on the size of the home and how much is in it. Plan for weeks, not days, and longer for a large house.
What do I do with things nobody wants?
Sell what has value, donate what's usable, and have the rest hauled away. See where to donate furniture.
How do I help a parent who won't let go of anything?
Start with the floor plan, keep the decisions in their hands, and focus on what will make the new place feel like home.