Downsizing from a larger to a smaller property is undertaken for a number reasons from selling to provide children with a deposit so they can purchase their first home, moving closer to children, or you want (or need) a reduction the day to day work of maintaining your home.

A good plan is the key to a successful downsize but, whilst I can’t promise it will be absolutely stress free, following my 7 ‘downsizing tips’ will certainly stand you in good stead.

*  Begin the sorting through process of personal items, housewares, clothing, furniture, the loft, garage and even the shed well in advance. Depending on whether you have been a frugal spender or a secret hoarder this process could take days, weeks or even months.

* Try to be objective about what to take with you to your new home. Remember not everything you currently own will fit into your new smaller space.

*  Recruit some helpers, if your friends or family are anything like me, there’s nothing like the offer of Sunday lunch in exchange for few hours of free labour! If help is not readily available seek the help of a professional home organiser or de-clutter. The Association of Professional De-clutters and Organisers lists professionals across the country that specialise in assisting people downsize and move home.

*  As you are going through your items sort them into four clear categories:-

– Items definitely not going to the new property and instead are heading to the charity shop or some other worthy cause.

– Items you are not sure about and you feel you need to think about and either decide to keep or remove later.

– Items you think someone else would love to have as a gift.

– Items to throw away.

*  Purchase storage boxes with wheels or handles that can be moved with ease without too much bending or lifting.

*  If you have lived in your property for more than 10 years invest in updating décor and refreshing key rooms such as the living and dining room, kitchen, bathroom and master bedroom. These rooms tend to ‘sell’ a property and investing a relatively small amount can save months of the property languishing on the market and may help you achieve closer to the price you desire.

*  Carefully select a removal company. Whilst a man with a van will save you money, consider obtaining the services of a company that does the packing for you, supplies you with boxes for free and are fully insured.