April 10, 2018

Whether becoming empty nesters, downsizing or adapting to the minimalist movement, households across America are examining the items they have collected over the years. The Washington Post reports that auction houses, consignment stores and thrift shops are being flooded with merchandise.  Choosing between space in your home versus saving family's heirlooms can be a difficult decision. One of our Women, Wealth & Wisdom 2018 speakers, Risa Meyer of Caring Transitions provides a checklist to help anyone going through the downsizing process.

Risa Meyer graduated from Texas A&M in 2005 with a Bachelors in Business Administration in Finance. She spent a few years in the Washington, DC area where she earned a Masters of Arts in Education and Human Development at The George Washington University. She returned to College Station in 2008 to work at Mays Business School in an academic advising role for the Business Honors program. After leaving to stay home with young kids, she and her husband opened Caring Transitions of Brazos Valley in 2014. Caring Transitions is a company that specializes in senior transitions, including relocation management, estate liquidations services and downsizing.

 


 Create an inventory of items you will take with you room-by-room.

 Pack your items according to your inventory list.

 Create an “Essentials Kit” that includes everything you need for the first few days in your new home. This would include toiletries, a change of clothes, basic first aid items, bedding, cups and plates, drinks, and snacks.

 Move plants and pets.

 Facilitate move-related services.

 Unpack your items using your inventory list and space plan.

 File your change of address.

This list can be a large task to tackle. Proper planning in advance can lessen the load along with the help of experts.