At some point in our lives for those of us who are home-owners, there comes a time when we have to make decisions about the home we live in. Do we want to relocate? Do we need to pay off a mortgage still? Will our homes be manageable long-term as we get older. In some cases, downsizing is a popular option. There can be many reasons why we might choose to downsize our homes. Perhaps your children have grown up and moved out, or maybe you simply can’t keep up with the maintenance required in a larger house.
Whatever the reason, downsizing can be a considerable undertaking that can come with many factors to consider. If you’re lucky enough to live in the beautiful city of Edinburgh (would definitely be another city I’d love to live in if we didn’t live in London) and considering downsizing in Edinburgh, here are some handy tips that might help along the way.
What To Do With Your Possessions
We often don’t realise just how many possessions we accumulate over the years and it can take a home move before we truly appreciate just how many things we own.
When downsizing, you will obviously have to make do with less space in your home. This might sound perfect for those of us with more minimalist tendencies, but it raises the issue of what to do with all of your current possessions. While some things can likely be thrown out, much of it will hold practical or sentimental value and, while you might not need regular or immediate use of it, discarding it isn’t an option.
Using an external storage unit can be a fantastic option for people looking to downsize. We used a storage lock up for a few years whilst renting out Pete’s first house when we were renting together before buying our own home. These units can be used to store all of your surplus possessions, from spare furniture to hobby and sports equipment. There are plenty of Edinburgh storage options at locations throughout the city, so you’ll no doubt be able to find a storage solution to suit your particular needs and requirements.
Where To Go
Where you decide to move to will depend entirely on your personal circumstances and financial situation. However, Edinburgh is full of incredible locations, each of which can offer something a little different, so your best bet is to weigh up all of the available options before making your final decision.
Edinburgh’s most famous district is the Old Town. As one of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Old Town is visually striking and incredibly atmospheric. With narrow, cobbled streets and towering architecture, it is truly a sight to behold. The Old Town is home to many small flats and apartments that are perfect for those looking to downsize.
On the opposite end of the spectrum is New Town. The fact that a district named New Town was constructed back in the late 1700s can give you an indication of just how old the city of Edinburgh is. New Town is more expansive than its Old Town counterpart, with wider streets and walkways as well as beautiful parks and green spaces. There are some incredible flats available in New Town and the district is a popular destination for downsizing homeowners.
How To Maintain A Smaller Home
Smaller homes can certainly be easier to maintain. However, you might find yourself in unfamiliar territory if you have lived in a larger home for many years. Making the most of the available space is the most important thing. There are various ways in which you can do this, from strategically placing mirrors around the home to increase the illusion of more room to using exposed leg furniture to open up floor space.
Conclusion
Choosing to downsize your home is a big decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. First, you’ll need to decide what to do with all your things, an external storage option can be the perfect solution for this. You’ll then need to decide where you’re going to move to, thankfully Edinburgh has plenty of options. Finally, you’ll need to learn how to maintain a smaller home and maximise the space available to you. Good luck with the journey if this is something you’re undertaking.
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