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San Diego real estate library
Real Estate --- Downsizing
In the past, a family of six or seven was not out of the
ordinary. Even larger families were not rare. During this time,
these families sought out the largest homes at the lowest
prices. These families needed the most square footage possible
with the most bedrooms. However, as children grow up and move
away, the houses seem to grow as well. Then the house was full
only during the holidays.
Now the house is just too big and there is so much that must be
done to maintain it, the holidays are no reason to keep the
lumbering giant. It is time to downsize. This can actually be a
exciting time in someone's life. It gives them a time to reflect
on the many memories they have from the old house. Packing can
be a fun way to share some of those memories. One way to do this
is to have a packing party.
Before you even begin, make sure you think about what you are
taking with you and what you are not going to need. You can do
this by packing some of the things away on your own. Then you
can call in the family to help. Make sure the grandchildren are
included in the invitation. Let the family know this is going to
be a whole day event.
Start out by asking everyone to bring a box. This is where the
excitement can start and a trip down memory lane can cause some
great laughter. As your family arrives, explain you are going to
be selling the house and you are packing up what you are not
going to need. As the kids wander from room to room it is their
job to explain about the stain on the living room carpet that
just mysteriously appeared. They can also talk about how the
unwanted house guest “No Body” kept doing things behind
everyone's back.
As the items are packed up and placed away, each one of the
children will have their own memories as well. These can be
shared with other members of the family and the new generation
too. The trophies which have collected dust can be bragged about
once again. The favorite toys in the attic can be brought back
to life with the grand kids in the house.
Downsizing does not have to be a depressing. It can be a time
when the entire family remembers what it was like growing up
with each other. The dishes used at holiday dinners, or why
there are only three legs on the table that are straight can
really make the experience a great way to say goodbye to a
family home with lots of memories.
As each family member packs up a box, make sure there is one
they are going to take home filled with the wonderful treasures
they had when they were growing up. This way a part of the old
house will stay with each one of them for years to come.
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