Downsizing is the process of selling a larger home and buying a smaller one such as a townhouse, bungalow or apartment. Around 34% of Canadians are planning to downsize, and 18% have already done it. Some of the reasons include: 

• Moving closer to loved ones
• Lower monthly bills
• Reduce the amount of housework and maintenance 
• Extra money for retirement 

Deciding to downsize is an exciting but very stressful time for anyone. We all have personal belongings that hold memories, but you do not want clutter with a smaller space. When you downsize, you might face challenges related to limited space. But if you come up with a plan early, you can lower stress and create a new, comfortable living space.

Start with small spaces

Although it is tempting to tackle larger spaces such as a garage or kitchen. It’s a better idea to start in smaller areas, such as a linen closet or laundry room. Consider your needs; if you’re moving into a one-bedroom apartment, you only need a couple of sets of sheets. This is recommended because attics, basements, and garages accumulate old hobbies, seasonal décor, and clutter.

Start organizing early

Once you have decided to downsize, give yourself plenty of time to get started. Don’t try to sort through your entire house over one weekend. A couple of weeks in a month is a realistic timeline. When you are not rushed, downsizing can be much less stressful.

Eliminate rooms you won’t have in your new home

If you are moving into an apartment, you may not have an office or three bathrooms. Almost everything in those places will need to be sold, relocated, or donated. It’s a good idea to consider what your lifestyle needs will be. For example, you can get rid of gym equipment because your building has a gym.

Donate or sell duplicates

Be mindful of what you own and what you can get rid of. By having fewer items to store, you can utilize your space more effectively. Do you need ten towels for two people living in one area? Cutting that in half will let you maximize your storage space.

When sorting through your items, make a yes and no pile. Take a hard look at what you’re holding and consider if you use it regularly or if it has been in a closet or shelf for over a year. Have you used it in the last few months, or will you use it in the future? Is there a family member who would appreciate or use your collectables or furniture?

Along with donating, you can sell items online through garage sales, Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace.

Storage Solutions For Downsizing

Living in an apartment does not mean you should hold back on your storage needs. With the proper techniques, you can optimize your space. If you’re looking for some unique and stylish ideas for your small space storage needs, take a look at these.

 Hide Your Storage

Not only can you have a stylish leg up in the living room, but you can also keep extra pillows, blankets or board games sneakily stored away and ready for easy access by utilizing storage benches.

Off The Floor

By using floating shelves, you can free up floor space. The open space under the shelf can be used for adding a stylish basket or left empty to open up space visually. You also will not need extra space for opening and closing doors.

Go Vertical

Use the space behind doors to hang storage solutions to help declutter small objects that may not find a proper place. They are also great for cleaning supplies or fashion needs. You can use over-the-door racks, s-hooks, or stick-on hooks.



Bring Night Stands To New Heights

The classic IKEA Lack shelf is a unique idea for your nightstand that will help utilize storage for your books and décor thanks to the multiple shelves and is only a few inches wide by a few inches deep. Also, consider tucking away clothing, books or linens under your bed with a storage bed.