Moving to a smaller home is one of the most common reasons for house sales within the current property market. The move to a smaller space is not always easy, but with some careful planning and thoughtful decision-making, the move can be as efficient and smooth as possible.
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According to the latest FNB Property Barometer published on 9th July, 22% of total sales were motivated by downscaling due to life stage and a further 21% were financial pressure-induced sales.
Commenting on this, Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, says that economic circumstances and high interest rates have put immense pressure on many homeowners. “My hope is that we will soon see a drop in interest rates which will bring some much-needed relief to many households,” he notes.
For those who are preparing for the move to a smaller home, RE/MAX of Southern Africa shares their tips on how to make the packing process go as efficiently as possible:
Start Early
When moving to a smaller home, there is the added task of having to sell and clear out furniture and other belongings. Starting early allows you to tackle packing in manageable steps, reducing stress as the moving day approaches. It also allows you time to process the move, especially if there is a lot of sentimental attachment to the home.
Declutter Ruthlessly
Moving to a smaller home means, in all likelihood, not everything will fit. As difficult as it may be, homeowners will need to be ruthless in their decluttering. If something has not been used in the past year, it is probably not worth keeping. For sentimental items like old photos or letters, consider digitising them. This allows you to keep the memories without taking up physical space.
Pack room by room
It can be overwhelming when faced with the task to pack up the entire home. Start slowly and tackle one room at a time to stay organised. Begin with the less frequently used rooms, like a spare bedroom. Leave the everyday essentials to the last day of packing, being sure to pack it in such a way so that it’s easy to access when you arrive at the new home.
Prepare for the new space
Rather than focusing on what you are saying goodbye to, focus on the excitement of moving into a new space. Measure the rooms against the size of your existing furniture to decide what items will need to be replaced. Visualize the layout of your new home and plan where each item will go.
“Moving to a smaller home can be an emotional process, but it can also be a liberating experience. It allows homeowners to declutter their lives, reduce expenses, and focus on what truly matters. As challenging as it may be, the sooner a struggling homeowner acts, the better their chances of making a full financial recovery. It can be useful to remember that downsizing does not need to be permanent – it can be a temporary solution to help you get to your forever home,” he says.
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An article published on Property24 on May 25, 2022, features Ana Roberts of Just Property Upper Highway, who explains that another great benefit of downscaling is that small spaces require less furniture - a few great statement pieces allow for simple, minimalist décor and a beautiful, welcoming home at a fraction of the cost of furnishing a big house. And the cleaning is a breeze!
Less clutter equals less stress, and isn’t that what we are all looking for now?
Tips for cosy-home hunting:
Location, location, location - You want to remain close to your family and friends, and have ease of access to stores and other amenities such as doctors, hospitals etc. Narrow your search to areas that tick these boxes.
What are your deal breakers? Does the home offer the main assets that are important to you, for example, a good kitchen, nice family space, shower etc?
Current wants vs future needs - If you are downsizing because the children have moved out and you are getting older, consider a single story with the ease of access rather than a property with stairs that may cause a problem later.
Growing pains - Will you be able to handle the upkeep of a big garden, or is it time for something smaller that is more manageable? Will your pets cope with a smaller space; is there somewhere nearby where you could walk them?
Fit for purpose - Will your favourite furniture fit in the new space? Make a list of every piece with which you can’t part. Take measurements. Then take a tape measure with you when you start narrowing down your list of potential new homes.
Storage war - Is there enough cupboard space in the bedrooms and the kitchen? Do you need outside storage too?
Peace of mind - Check the security features of each property you visit. Find out how safe the area is and what security is available. Ask the neighbours, chat to the local police, and phone a security company that focuses on the neighbourhood.
Guest appeal - Consider how many bedrooms you will need going forward - if your kids have all moved out of home, you may only need one spare room for when they or your friends come to stay.
Paper trails - Remember to ask for compliance certificates, even those that aren't required in your province (for example, gas installations and solar geysers should come with a compliance certificate - if something goes wrong and you don't have one, your insurers may refuse to replace the geyser, or cover damage caused by a gas issue).
Complex questions - If you are moving into a complex or an apartment, be aware that there may be the added expense of levies, clubhouse fees and/or security. Ask about historical escalation rates and request a copy of the body corporate rules (if applicable.)
Ask your neighbours if there are any noise issues, does sound travel through the walls and ceiling? How old is the plumbing, the lifts etc - upgrading such items is very expensive and you’ll have to contribute. What parking is available for guests?
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