Organize Your Move to Save Money and Energy

NJ Organizing Expert, Marilyn Shain Labendz, makes your move easier

Upsizing? Downsizing? Relocating?

Regardless of your situation, moving is difficult, costly and emotional.

There are lots of points to consider in all these scenarios, so let's take a look at some ways to make things easier -- by taking a good look at your belongings!

For the older set downsizing: Your children don't want your "stuff."

In the years after WWII new homeowners bought with the intention of staying in the house for good. They accumulated "things" to show success and permanence. It was a different time than now.
Gifts were given with the thought in mind of creating treasures that would pass down to the next generation.
You know you don't have room for everything in your new home and your adult children and adult grandchildren don't really want your possessions.
Have your heirs pick a few things out that they would like, (or not), and either sell or donate the rest. In that way these treasures live on in new homes and you can offset the cost of your move.
Realize that what your children and grandchildren want is you and the experiences you've shared. Take photos of your items, make "Snapfish" books , (for example), complete with a little memory note about the photo. At least make one for yourselves, if not as gifts for the family.

For the younger folks with growing families or new job locations: Moving is expensive! Very expensive.

Sift through your possessions before you pack.
The question to ask is "Do I want to pay to have this moved?"
Avoid the trap of being tired of sorting and packing and just "throw it in and we'll decide later."
If there are cartons from your last move that you haven't opened yet, chances are you don't need what's inside.
Toss, sell or donate the items you don't need or want to bring with you. It's cleansing. and it can save you money.