Downsizing & Self Storage

That time has come in your life when you need to downsize and you need storage. Maybe you are retiring and moving to a smaller home, or you’ve decided to move to that really nice 55+ community that has much less closet space; or maybe the kids are all off to college, getting married or just getting out on their own, finally, and you have the house all to yourselves. Whatever the reason, you have to downsize! You need to clean up and clean out – you just have too much stuff. That is where self storage can really become a huge benefit for you!

Downsizing and Self Storage

You probably fit one of these two scenarios:

You are now empty-nesters

The kids have moved out! You can finally turn their bedroom into that office you always wanted or the dream craft room or even a guest bedroom. The possibilities are endless! So, what are you going to do with all that extra stuff they left behind – bed, desk, dresser, etc.?

Getting a self storage unit will solve your lack of space issues – it’s the perfect solution! It can also ease the transition for you and your kids when they move out. You can place all the items they want or need to have access to in the storage unit, getting that stuff out of your home but still easy to reach for them.

You are retiring and moving to a smaller home or a retirement community.

You made it – you are retiring this year! First of all, congrats! Retirement marks the end, but also the beginning of a new chapter in your life. We all dream of that day when we can sleep in with no alarm and do all those things we dreamt of, like traveling the world and finding new hobbies.

You are planning to move from your four-bedroom, two-car garage home with full basement and attic, to a two-bedroom, one-car garage home with a small basement and no attic. Your new home has fewer and smaller closets than your current home and a lot less storage space overall. Where are you going to put the 30 years of belongings you have accumulated but can’t bear to get rid of yet? When downsizing, you may find that getting rid of your cherished belongings is just out of the question.

This is where a self storage unit comes to the rescue! Your kids may need that extra furniture when they buy their first home, or when their kids go off to college – so put it into storage for later.

Whatever the reason is for downsizing, self storage is the solution that will make that next chapter in your life much easier, less stressful, and more organized. There are a few things you want to keep in mind when deciding to use self storage. Follow these easy steps to get prepared:

Make a list of items you are keeping.

These will be items that you use all the time, and cannot live without. Things like your kitchenware, small appliances, clothing, and electronics. If you have used it in the last couple of days or weeks, it’s probably something you need to keep on hand.

Make a list of items you plan to place in storage.

These are the things you want to keep but don’t have room for in your home. This list will help you decide what size storage unit you need, and if you need a drive-up unit or interior access unit, to keep your belongings safe and secure. North Shore Mini Storage only has interior access units.

Make a list of items your kids are taking with them.

The last thing you want to do is give items away that your kids want now, or place a bunch of stuff into your self storage unit that they need now. Be sure to ask them to review the list with you to ensure you include everything that can and cannot go into storage.

Make a list of items you plan to donate.

It may seem hard to believe, but a lot of that stuff you own you haven’t used for years, and will probably never use again. Those items are the ones you can donate to your local mission or charity. Many charities will actually come to you and pick up items you wish to donate, such as furniture, exercise equipment, and large amounts of clothing; just call and ask.

Downsizing can be an overwhelming process for anyone. If you have done all of these steps and still feel like you need help, be sure to give us a call, contact us via email, or stop in to see our property manager. We are very knowledgeable in storage and moving, and can help you through the entire process from start to finish. Self storage is a great option when downsizing that will give you extra space, keep your belongings safe and secure, and give you the peace of mind that your stuff is easily accessible when you need it.