Tips on Moving from Large Home to Apartment

So you have to downsize and you just don't know where to begin.  Well, you just might want to plan accordingly so that you won't find yourself overwhelmed midway through the move, because all your stuff simply won't be able to fit in the apartment.

In order to organize effectively and create a comfortable living space, you might want to plan prior to packing.  Ask yourself, "What can I do without for a time?"  Many items are decorative, memorable, and really serve no real purpose other than to make one feel good.  However, when you have limited space, one must cast "the feel good sensations" aside and go with logic.

Pack all items that you know you don't use first.  For instance, photographs are not used like certain kitchen tools.  Place the unnecessary items in boxes and bins.  Be sure they are secure and not loosely stored away.  They will be transported and the chances of something breaking during the move is probable if they aren't packed well--bubble wrap works wonders! 

1.  Break up your items according to size.  The bigger items that have more than one function should have a reserved space.  These items will come in handy when storing items like: bookshelves, an end table with drawers and a shelf, a storage rack, plastic sliding drawers, etc.  Other furniture that doesn't serve a purpose such as fancy decor for viewing only should be stored away in a separate facility.

2.  Storage bins or boxes with keepsakes can take up much space.  It is best to keep these items packed separately and stored elsewhere.

3.  Your most important things you use often will need to be stored in your apartment, so be sure to make room for those items by cutting down on things like: bedding, towels, and miscellaneous goods that are rarely used.  Some organizers can be room wasters, so if they take up room it might be better to lose them.

4.  Bedroom closet space is essential and must be used wisely.  Consider buying hangers that can hold more than one item.  Use shoe boxes and small bins to store smaller items.  Give away or sell items you no longer wear or like.

5.  Take advantage of hooks that can be placed on the back of doors or over the door racks.  These come in handy for storing items that might otherwise end up on chairs or the floor.

6.  Don't feel obligated to unpack everything.  How many dishes will you really be using?  How often will you wear certain clothing and shoes?  Is it really necessary to display your keepsakes, collections, and other interesting items?  How many curtains will you be hanging up, picture frames, and artwork?

7.  Use space under the bed, under cabinets, behind walls and doors, corners, and other places.  Note: for bathroom items in addition to the space under the cabinet, consider getting an over the toilet rack, shower caddy or corner shelf for more storage.

In your mind, as you sort and organize, know that the rooms you will be loosing when you downsize might be combined.  You might want to consider dividing up the living room or one of the larger bedrooms to accommodate your needs.  Consider a room divider or use a couch or other large piece of furniture to separate areas.  For instance, if you are losing a room that held your office items, you may have to create a small space within a bedroom or living room to meet at least some of your needs.

If it helps to design a drawing that includes where everything is going to go, list inventory that is going in your apartment, take measurements of your items or the room, and other things to answer some of those questions in your head, do it!  You can eliminate some stress when you know in advance what fits, what you would like to keep in your apartment and what might have to go for a time.

Nicholl McGuire enjoys uploading some of her trips on McGuire Travels http://www.youtube.com/budgettraveltips