Clear out the house now

#Middlebury

For most of us, the time eventually comes to move out of our homes into a smaller, more manageable place. Some of us have a whole house of belongings to consider. Some of us have not only our stuff, but much that belonged to our parents because we didn’t deal with their belongings – we simply moved it all into our house.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Even if you’re not ready to move, clearing out the extras and organizing the rest will make it easier when the time does come.
• If you have antiques, get an appraiser to come in and give you an estimate of their value.
• Ask for references to professional organizers. Check sites online, such as www.movingforseniors.com and www.nasmm.org, which is National Association of Senior Move Managers. Put in your ZIP code to see who’s in your area.
• Consider selling your things online, with help. Check out www.ebth.com (aka Everything But the House) and read the How It Works section. They do nearly everything required to get your belongings sold, putting cash in your pocket.
• Ask your children, if you have any, which of your belongings they’d like to have. Be prepared for them to decline your offer. So many in the younger generations are themselves living in very small spaces with no room for extra belongings.
• Whether you’re preparing to move, or you’re a child who has been tasked with closing down the house, check this book on Amazon.com: “Downsizing the Family Home: What to Save, What to Let Go,” by columnist Marni Jameson. Read the lengthy introduction in the See Inside link.

By paring down your belongings now, you’ll be a step ahead should you ever need to move in a hurry. It’s not too early to start.

(c) 2017 King Features Synd. Inc.