Decluttering

Whether you plan to move to a smaller home or remain in your current one, the sooner you begin the process of decluttering and downsizing your possessions, the safer and better off you will be. Downsizing can be difficult both emotionally and physically. In Westchester, many of us have more than we need. This is particularly true if you have lived in the same home for decades.

There are ways to make a transition as smooth as possible - it won’t get any easier if you put it off. After you declutter, your move will be much smoother because there will be less to pack, ship, store, and unpack: saving time and money. Should your move involve selling your home, you will have the added benefit of having it show better. It is also safer to live in a house with less clutter. So, where do you begin?

1. Establish a timeline for your decluttering and for your move.

2. Envision how you want your new space to look. How much space will you have? Will your old bedroom furniture fit in your new bedroom? Make a floor plan of your new space and determine what you will take with you. If your furniture is in good condition but no longer fits your needs, consider donating to Furniture Sharehouse, located at the Westchester County Airport; place on consignment or give to family members.

3. Organize and sort your belongings. Make three piles: keep, discard, and sell or give away. Remember the adage: use it, love it or leave it. If things are worn, damaged, or out of date, get rid of them. This especially applies to electronics, which can be properly disposed of at a Best Buy.

4. Start in the easiest room: the one that isn’t used often and will not impact your daily living, such as the basement. The process is easier in warm weather and you may want to consider having a summer tag sale.

5. Be realistic. Just because you spent a lot of money on something doesn’t mean it is worth a lot now. Tastes change and the value of valuables change. You can benefit others by donating.

6. Digitize. There is no need to keep CDs, DVDs or extra paper. The best way to store and preserve photos is electronically.

And finally, know that there are professionals you can call for help. A move manager can significantly reduce the stress that comes with most moves. They can help you switch utilities, assist in sales and donations, hire movers, keep timing on track and help you unpack and settle into your new home.

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Joanna Bassett and Pam Paterson of Moving in Tandem, LLC help with moving and relocation assistance, estate cleaning and organization, and downsizing needs. Email them at movingintandem@gmail.com or call 914-200-4644; www.movingintandem.com