The New York Times recently reported on the cottage industry of downsizing specialists that have cropped up to help seniors who must figure out how to squeeze the contents of a house into a small retirement unit. They help Baby Boomers declutter decades of of belongings.
Many grown kids don’t tchothkes or bulkier items, or do they want to take on the task of sorting and disposing of goods in their parents’ homes. People are more willing to pay outsiders to help them pare down their stuff. Sorting, packing and moving typically runs $4,000 to $10,000, depending on locale.
Many senior housing communities have established programs to help seniors pare back before moving in. Some offer a downsizing credit, up to $2000 or more.
Here are some ideas from downsizing specialists:
- calendar some organizing time
- set a timer to get started
- start small
- get a friend to help
- fill a trash bag once a week
- call and book a donation pickup for the next day
Image: Flickr / Mike Mozart
0
0
0
0
0
