How to Make Your Downsize Feel Like Home

Downsizing your home is a great idea for the majority of seniors. With a smaller home, you have less upkeep. A smaller home also means you don’t pay as much for utilities, insurance and taxes. Furthermore, it gives you the freedom to move to an area that is more accessible, has plenty of amenities and makes life generally easier throughout retirement. 

If you’ve recently downsized, it may feel weird walking into a new house after spending years in your previous one. While it can take time for a house to feel like a home, you can expedite the process a bit by adding a few touches that make the place cozier. Local real estate expert Shirley Smith explains how.  

Reduce Clutter

Chances are you did a big cleanout of your belongings before you moved. But it’s always possible you didn’t get rid of enough for it all to fit in this smaller property. While you may think being surrounded by your belongings will make you feel more at home, it’s more likely the opposite is true. Clutter has the power to make us feel depressed and anxious -- not exactly the foot on which you want to start off your new life. 

Rather than stressing over clutter -- and about getting rid of things -- simply rent a self-storage unit where you can hold boxes containing non-essential items you don’t need on-hand. With a little organization of your boxes and some quick online research, you can find a fairly inexpensive unit in your area. And when the time comes to sort those surplus items, consider donating them to a charity of your choice.

Refresh the Walls

A smaller space doesn’t need to feel cramped or heavy, and your wall colors can play a big part in ensuring your rooms are airy and light. It’s best to use light colorswith some contrast to open up a room. And if you elect to go with wallpaper, fight the urge to use small patterns; MyDomaine explains large, bold patterns can actually make a space feel larger. If you aren’t completely sure, removable patterns are the way to go. You can even test the wallpapers you like with pattern swatches. And once you’ve changed up the walls, you’ll be ready to dive into smaller decor items.

Update Your Security

Even if the previous owners took pains to ensure your new home is safe, it’s wise to do a once-over yourself. Are there areas where burglars can easily hide? If so, add some thorny bushes near windows or entrances as deterrents. What about the security system? If you have one installed, go ahead and set up an account with the company that offers monitoring. Otherwise, have a new system set up or add a security camera feature. Remember to also have your doors re-keyed. To ensure you are the only one with access, new locks and new keys can bring extra peace of mind. When it comes to a security system or new lock installation, connect with local professionals with stellar reviews and affordable prices by searching a site like Angi. Just be sure to ask about experience, qualifications and warranties. 

Add Some Life

Buying a houseplant (or five!) is a great way to make a connection between you and your new place. Plants are inexpensive decor that serve more than one purpose. They help keep the air clean and remove indoor pollutants. People with plants in their home tend to get sick less often because their air contains fewer allergens and dust. This helps them sleep better at night and feel better during the day. Plants are great for your mental health, too. They are known to help relieve depression, reduce stress, boost productivity and improve focus. Best of all, houseplants are fairly inexpensive; you can add an easy-to-grow philodendron to your home for around $22.

If your thumb is more black than green, there are other low-maintenance houseplants that you can find at your local nursery: 

• Chinese evergreens

• Ficus bonsai trees

• Pothos plants

• Fiddle leaf figs

• Peace lilies

• Cacti and succulents

• Snake plants

• Lucky bamboo

• Weeping figs

• Aloe vera

• African violets
• Paddle plants

Retirement is a great time for downsizing your house and belongings. It has many benefits, but sometimes it can take a while for a new place to feel like home. To help expedite the process, make sure your home is uncluttered and tidy. Change the walls to make the most of your space, then add some visuals like blankets and houseplants throughout to ramp up the coziness factor. These simple fixes will help you settle right in!

Need help selling your home?

Shirley Smith with Coldwell Banker West can help! Call 619-559-6548 or email shirley@shirleysmith.com today.