Gather important legal documents in one place● High priority

Will, power of attorney, healthcare directive, insurance policies, financial account information.

Involve family members early in the planning process● High priority

Coordinate with family about what items are meaningful and who wants to take what.

Contact a senior move manager if needed

Senior move managers specialize in downsizing transitions and can coordinate the entire process.

Measure the new space and plan what furniture will fit● High priority

Only take what fits and what you truly need. Use a floor plan to visualize the new layout.

Sort belongings into Keep, Sell, Donate, and Discard piles● High priority

Be realistic about what fits in the new space. Start with one room at a time to avoid overwhelm.

Offer meaningful items to family members first● High priority

Give family the opportunity to take heirlooms and meaningful items before selling or donating.

Contact an estate sale or moving sale company for surplus belongings● High priority

If there's more than a few boxes of items to sell, a professional moving sale or estate sale company will maximize your return.

Interview realtors 3-6 months before your target move date● High priority

Getting the home sale timed correctly with the new residence is critical. Start planning early.

Budget for final cleanout services before the home is listed

A professional cleanout removes all remaining items and prepares the home for staging and photography.

Consider a cash offer for faster, simpler home sale

If repairs, showings, or a long listing process is impractical, a cash offer provides certainty and speed.

Update address with USPS, banks, Medicare, and Social Security● High priority

File a change of address early and update all important accounts before the move.

Transfer or cancel utilities and services at the old address

Internet, cable, power, gas, water, and subscription services all need to be transferred or canceled.