For me, in my past life as a serial renter, it was always the ‘not knowing’ where I would live next. You are given notice on your flat, or you give notice (for whatever reason) and you have a date to leave, but you don’t necessarily have somewhere to go to. That was always stressful.
Last month, we helped someone who moved out of her property to have it refurbished, and she lived temporarily in rented accommodation. We decluttered before she left, but because she was returning, she knew there was space for all the possessions that had come out. The incentive to fully declutter, therefore, was not really there. All my clients take more than they should when downsizing as until you experience with your own eyes, all your possessions coming out of the multitude of boxes, it is hard to envisage just how much you have. In this case, the number of boxes, even with help to unpack, has almost broken her.
For other clients, the worst part is the solicitors and estate agents, and all the questions; you’ve lived there a long time and you know the house is fine – why can’t your buyer see that? Their solicitor has a duty to make sure that it ticks all the boxes for current regulations and that they are not opening a can of worms down the line.
In some cases, it can be the thought of ‘starting again’, especially in later life. The happy home you had with all those lovely memories is gone. But it is a chance to start afresh and enjoy your new place. Take things with you that remind you of those good times, but remember that your move is happening to help you live a safe and happy life as you age, and new fun memories will be created there too.
Whatever your concerns with your home move, we can help support you through it and take away all the practical worries - and hopefully many of the emotional ones too!