Preparing for the Move

 

• Create two specific inventory lists to organize your belongings.
• Put essential items for daily comfort on your "must" list.
• Put decorative or sentimental objects on your "want" list.
• Trim both lists down to fit your new home. 

• Obtain exact dimensions of every room in your new apartment.
• Compare these measurements against your current furniture to choose what fits.
• Replace pieces that will make your new space cramped or unsafe.
• Measure retail furniture before purchasing new replacements.

• Ask trusted friends or family members for help with tough choices.
• Ensure your helpers keep the process moving forward efficiently.
• Use this time to document family heirloom history.
• Label old photographs with dates and names.
• Schedule a future date with children to review photos if time runs out.

• Tackle your household sorting in small, manageable sections.
• Focus on one room at a time.
• Start in a single corner and work your way around.
• Finish sorting the designated room completely before moving items elsewhere.

• Place sticky notes on items to show their destination.
• Assign a distinct color to each person receiving an item.
• Use specific colors for storage units or donation piles. 

• Hire specialized Senior Move Managers to reduce relocation stress.
• Choose project managers if you only need logistics coordination.
• Choose full-service relocation experts for packing and unpacking.
• Use these professionals to help sell, donate, or discard unneeded items.

• Ask your upcoming residential community for recommended local vendors.
• Request their list of realtors, movers, and transition managers.
• Contact the local Chamber of Commerce for vetted business options. 
• Contact Elderwerks for referrals.