Moving to a new home can be exciting, but the process of packing and deciding what to keep and what to leave behind can be overwhelming. Especially if you have years’ worth of belongings to sort through!
Whether downsizing, expanding, or relocating to a different area, deciding what to keep when moving can feel like a puzzle. You might be tempted to pack everything and sort it out later, but this approach only creates more work and stress. To make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible, here are some tips and tricks for deciding what to keep when moving.
Evaluate your new home’s size and layout
One of the challenges of moving is fitting all your belongings into your new home. Before you start packing, it’s essential to consider the size and layout of your new home. Take measurements of your new home, and determine where your furniture and appliances will fit. Also, think about what items work well in your new space and what might not. This step enables you to make more informed decisions about what to keep and what to replace in your new home.
Make a priority list
Making a priority list will help you determine what to keep based on your needs, sentimental value, and personal preferences. Start by categorizing your belongings into essential, non-essential, and sentimental items. Essential items are those that you need for everyday living, like clothing, furniture, and kitchen appliances. Non-essential items are things like books, decor, or sports equipment. Sentimental items include things that have a significant emotional value to you, like family heirlooms or photographs.
Consider sentimental value
Sentimental value can make it difficult to decide what to keep when moving. Items such as family heirlooms, old photographs, and childhood toys can hold a lot of emotional significance. However, it’s important to be realistic about what you can and can’t keep. Take photos of sentimental items or gift them to family and friends who would love to have them. This will help you preserve the memories while also reducing the amount of items you’ll need to pack.
Get rid of duplicates and unused items
Moving is an excellent opportunity to get rid of items you no longer use or need. If you have duplicates of the same item, such as a toaster, blender, or vacuum cleaner, decide which one to keep. If you haven’t used an item in over a year, it’s time to let it go. Donate gently used items to charity or sell them online using websites such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist. If you have items that are beyond repair or no longer useful, dispose of them responsibly.
Consider external storage
If you’re struggling to decide what to keep, consider renting a storage unit. This will give you extra time to decide what to do with your belongings. It’s also a good option if you have sentimental items that you don’t want to get rid of, but don’t have space for in your new home.
Ask for help
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Moving can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Ask a friend or family member to help you make the difficult decisions.
Moving can be a stressful process, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these steps, you can make the transition to your new home easier and start your new life in your new home with peace of mind.
Move into a new S&A home
Ready to make your own move? S&A Homes offers a diverse selection of home designs to accommodate a variety of home buyers throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Learn more about our new homes, including quick move-in homes and build on your land opportunities, by calling (855) SAHOME1 or visiting us online at SAHomeBuilder.com.