When people ask me what surprises homeowners the most when it’s time to sell, they usually expect my answer to be about the real estate market.
Is it the incredible prices buyers are willing to pay in Ridgewood? Not really. Ridgewood’s outstanding schools, vibrant downtown, beautiful neighborhoods, and strong sense of community have made it one of the most desirable places to live in northern New Jersey and buyers recognize that value.
Is it how quickly homes sell? Again, not usually. In our market, it’s common for a home to be listed on a Thursday, shown all weekend, and have highest and best offers due by Tuesday. While that pace can be intense, most sellers have heard stories from friends and neighbors and know what to expect.
The real surprise is much more personal. It’s the sheer amount of stuff.
This spring alone, I worked with two families who had lived in their homes for more than 20 years. Both were completely overwhelmed by the task of emptying their homes. Closets were packed, basements were overflowing, attics held decades of memories, and every drawer seemed to contain another chapter of their lives.
The reality is that we don’t accumulate our belongings overnight. They arrive one birthday, one holiday, one home project, and one life milestone at a time. Before long, decades have passed, and what once fit comfortably into a home now feels impossible to sort through.
Lately, I’ve had the privilege of helping more seniors and downsizers navigate this transition. Their stories are all different. Some are moving closer to family. Some are heading to warmer climates. Others are trading a large home for the excitement and convenience of city living. I’ve even worked with clients who are embracing assisted living after making the difficult decision that it’s the right next step.
One thing they all have in common is that downsizing takes far more planning than they expected. Along the way, many discover that they need resources they never imagined using: professional organizers, estate sale companies, junk removal services, donation centers, movers, storage facilities, and senior move managers. These services are incredibly valuable, but they also add time, expense, and decision fatigue to an already emotional process.
As a Realtor, one of the best pieces of advice I can offer is simple: don’t wait until you’re moving to start downsizing. Here are a few habits that make a future move much easier:
- Adopt a “one in, one out” mindset. Every time something new comes into your home, consider donating or discarding something you no longer use.
- Start with the easy spaces. Linen closets, kitchen gadgets, holiday decorations, and duplicate household items are great places to begin.
- Don’t save things out of guilt. Keeping an item because someone gave it to you isn’t the same as loving it or using it.
- Digitize what you can. Old paperwork and photographs can often be scanned, preserving the memories without taking up valuable space.
- Declutter before you need to. Even if you have no plans to move, maintaining your home now will make any future transition significantly less stressful.
- Ask for help early. Family members, friends, and professionals can make the process much more manageable when you don’t wait until the last minute.
The truth is, downsizing isn’t really about getting rid of things. It’s about making room for the next chapter of your life while keeping the memories that matter most. If you’re looking for encouragement and practical tips, I invite you to join my two Facebook communities. The Sandwich Club with Megan Murphy is a supportive group for adults balancing the needs of aging parents, adult children, and everything in between. If you’re ready to start decluttering, my 40 Bags in 40 Days Facebook group offers a simple, supportive challenge to help you clear your home one small step at a time. Whether you’re planning to sell next month or simply want to simplify your life, you’ll find motivation, practical ideas, and a community cheering you on every step of the way.
Sometimes the best time to prepare for your next move is long before you know where that move will take you.
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