For many homeowners, there comes a point when “less” truly becomes “more”. Downsizing – moving into a smaller, more manageable home – can be a strategic way to simplify life, reduce costs and gain the freedom to focus on what matters most. But doing it right takes thoughtful planning.
The first step is to start early. Waiting until the last minute to tackle decades of belongings can make the process overwhelming. Instead, begin months in advance, sorting through your home one room at a time. Ask yourself what you truly use and love. Sentimental items can be the hardest, but remember, donating or gifting pieces to family can be a meaningful way to pass them along. For memories, you want to keep without the clutter. Consider scanning photos and documents to create a digital archive.
Once you have found your next forever home, measure your new space carefully. A sofa or hutch that worked in your living room may overwhelm a smaller one. By knowing the dimensions, you’ll save yourself the cost and hassle of moving items that won’t fit. When choosing what to bring, prioritize multi-purpose furniture: a dining table with hidden leaves or a storage ottoman. These smart choices make a smaller footprint feel larger.
It’s also wise to think ahead about accessibility. Look for layouts with fewer stairs, wider doorways and practical floor plans that can adapt to your future needs. As far as where your next home will be, your Realtor will be able to help you find local neighborhoods that were designed with that smaller, easier accessible home in mind. Lynchburg doesn’t offer abundant options at this point, so getting creative with what is on the market is a must.
Can that basement laundry in the otherwise perfect ranch-style home get moved up to the main level? Can some outdoor earth grading help to get rid of those three steps leading to the front door of the home? As a Realtor, I get to explore hundreds of homes every year, and always get ideas for minor renovations that will help a variety of my clients’ needs, wants and desires. Your real estate professional should be able to share creative solutions to a few of the hiccups that your otherwise perfect home will offer.
At the heart of downsizing is perspective. Instead of focusing on what you’re leaving behind, you have the opportunity to celebrate what you’re gaining: less maintenance, lower expenses and more time for travel, hobbies, community and family. Done right, downsizing is not throwing in the towel, it’s about stepping into a simpler and fuller life.
Billy Morris
2025 President of the Lynchburg Association of Realtors
An Associate Broker at John Stewart Walker Inc.