7 Expert Hacks for Downsizing to a Smaller Apartment

Published on: 21 August 2019 Last Updated on: 10 August 2020
Downsizing

So you want to downsize to a smaller apartment? 

If you’re banging your head against the wall trying to figure out how to make a move go smoothly, you’re not alone. We’ve all been guilty of having too much stuff!

Give yourself a break and start thinking of solutions. Stay inspired by focusing on the many benefits of downsizing! 

Moving into a smaller apartment gives you the chance to start over and get rid of things you no longer need. It can also help you to get organized and keep only the essentials. 

Even better, you won’t have to clean nearly as much space and can live as a minimalist! That in itself has some serious perks. Your stuff won’t own you and you’ll have more time to enjoy life.

Do you see where we’re going with this? 

Get ready, because, in this article, we offer seven expert hacks to help make the process of moving into a smaller apartment easier. 

Here are 7 Expert Hacks for Downsizing to a Smaller Apartment:

1. Analyze the space you’ll have

It’s essential to know the total space of your new apartment before you start the downsizing process. 

Take a look at your new floor plan and figure out how much room in feet and inches are on each wall. That way you’ll know what will fit in your apartment.

If the measurements aren’t on the floor plan, ask the leasing office to provide you with the details. 

But, the floor plan or provided measurements won’t tell you everything. You need to measure the extra spaces as well: 

  • Closets
  • Space under the bed (more on this later)
  • Bathroom storage and cabinets
  • Garage storage (if your apartment includes a separate garage)
  • Kitchen storage and cabinets
  • Other spaces where you might add shelving (like the top of the fridge or in a window)

When you’re done with that, measure your current furniture and decide which pieces will fit into your place and which ones you won’t need. 

2. Determine your actual needs 

An excellent way to figure out what your needs are is by asking yourself if everything was gone, what would you replace? 

Jot down some necessary items you can’t live without such as a bed, sofa, coffeemaker, dog bed — whatever is important to you. 

You should also ask yourself the following questions: 

  • What sentimental items will I miss the most? 
  • Does this item serve a purpose? 
  • Do I already have something that serves the same purpose? 
  • Can I use this item to accomplish more than one task? 
  • Is this object in good shape, and will it last for a while longer?

This is the point where you’ll be making some headway on knowing what you’re keeping and what you can live without. 

If ever in doubt of whether you should keep or donate something, go back to asking yourself these questions. 

3. Set some tangible goals 

When it’s getting closer to moving time, you need to come up with a game plan. 

Best get started with setting some goals before time escapes you! 

We’re assuming you want to declutter and possibly redecorate your new place, and if that’s the case, it’s time to set some tangible goals. 

Ask yourself these questions:

(Yes, we realize we’re telling you to do this yet again.)

  • What do I hope to gain by adopting a minimalist lifestyle? 
  • Do I want to keep the furniture I have or get new furniture (#1 and #4 will help with this)
  • How do I plan to declutter? 
  • How will I maximize my space? (Keep reading because we cover this in #4.)
  • What will I do if I can’t decide to part with some items? 
  • Should I pay for storage elsewhere to store extra belongings? 

Need some help answering those kinds of questions? 

Here are some goals you could have:

  • I want a clutter-free apartment that will give me peace. 
  • Not fixating on my possessions will help me feel free. 
  • I’d like to have a clean slate and keep my belongings organized moving forward. 
  • Being minimalistic will help me put emphasis on the most important emotional and physical items in my life. 

Write down a few goals that inspire you so that when you feel like giving up, you’ll be able to remind yourself of your intentions.

4. Be a master organizer by maximizing space 

Since you know how much space is in your apartment, as we recommended in #2, you should already have a plan in place as to where everything should go.

With the limited storage space in your new digs, it’ll help to store things vertically.

Vertically aligning hooks and shelves helps you take advantage of every square inch of space. 

You might want to use adhesive hooks at first because most are easy to adjust.

We’ll be getting into how to simplify your wardrobe next, but for now, keep in mind that multi-use furniture can solve a lot of storage problems. 

Keep reading because we’re about to reveal some killer ideas. 

One idea is to maximize space by incorporating storage headboards. These are pieces of furniture such as bookshelves and a hutch that’ll fit over your bed. 

Incorporating these types of units will make it easier to store a variety of items from family treasures to books and jewelry. 

For example, incorporating a fitted unit in your closet can make it easier to organize. 

Beyond that, think of other ways you can make use of storage. Is there any room underneath the bed you’ll be moving into your fancy new apartment? 

If there isn’t and you need an upgrade, buy a bed that has drawers underneath. Trust us — those drawers will be your best friend when you need to store extra items of clothing such as blankets or sweatshirts. 

Keep your bed if you like it, and it just so happens that you may be able to squeeze in some bins underneath to use as storage. For example, milk crates work well when you want to store books, tee shirts, and keepsakes.

5. Simplify your wardrobe

wardrobe 

Seriously, how do you go about simplifying your wardrobe with you have a gazillion t-shirts? 

If you think your new closet is small, just think about the people who live in tiny homes. Now those are super tiny! 

Don’t worry; you can do this if they can! 

Here are some steps to follow that’ll make your wardrobe functional in no time at all. 

Step 1:  Get all of your clothing out (ALL of it!) and put it somewhere you can sort through it. Whether that’s on the floor or on your bed is entirely up to you. 

Step 2:  Next, divide those clothes into three different piles and decide to donate, keep, or store them. 

Step 3:  Ask yourself if the clothing fits you or if it’s still in wearable condition. If you haven’t worn jeans, for example, due to a weight gain or loss, donate or store those items. 

Don’t keep clothing that’s falling apart. That’s just a waste of precious closet space!

Step 4:  Are you done going through your clothing and separating them into three different piles? 

Okay good, you’re going to do it again. This time ask yourself if this clothing fits your personality and your current lifestyle. 

Step 5:  Mission complete! Well, almost. Organize the clothes you’re keeping, store what you plan to wear later (such as seasonal clothing), and drop off clothes you’re donating.

6. Sell or donate what you don’t want 

Now that you know how much space you have, and how to simplify your wardrobe, let’s dive into why it’s so essential to sell or donate belongings. It’s time to stop and figure out which items you can and can’t part with. 

As you know, whether you’re moving to a different city or relocating to a separate apartment at the same complex, moving takes a lot of work.

You should do everything in your power to simplify the moving process. 

Eager to make some money to help with moving expenses?

One way to do that is by selling belongings and furniture you no longer want.

Try Craigslist, eBay, garage sales, Facebook, consignment stores, and more.

Before you even start packing, you should sell, donate, or recycle stuff you can live without. This will eliminate packing everything up only to decide later that you didn’t need that item of clothing or five extra plates. 

If you have problems deciding whether you want to keep, sell, or donate an item, take a hard look at everything you own. 

Think about whether another person would find use out of that item.

If the item is useful, you can either donate it or sell it, depending on its value. 

Who knows, your trash may turn into someone else’s treasure. 

7. Digitize nonessential media

Next let’s dive into how you can digitize and save documents, pictures, videos, cassettes, videos, DVDs, and CDs. 

While it’s important to keep hard copies of documents such as your social security card and birth certificate, try to save and scan everything else. 

Transfer CDs and DVDs to digital files by using free computer programs such as Freemake Video Converter, Movavi, and WinX.

Scan documents to your computer or save them as PDF files. After you’re done scanning everything, use services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Microsoft One Drive. 

Online storage sites are lifesavers when your goal is to digitize media. 

Think of all of the space you’ll free up in your new apartment by getting rid of boxes of videos, paper, and more by going paperless! 

It’ll take some time, but it’ll totally be worth it. And boom! Suddenly you’ll realize you’re there. 

So, do you think it’s time to move? Even though downsizing may seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Moving to a smaller apartment has its perks, such as decluttering your life and organizing your new place with fewer belongings. 

Simply put, downsizing to a smaller apartment means: 

  • Enjoying lower monthly expenses and living costs
  • Not having to clean nearly as much since your place is smaller
  • Living a minimalist lifestyle without meaningless belongings getting in your way 

Instead of sweating the small stuff, take the moving process step by step. Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying your new digs, relieved that you took the time to eliminate the clutter.

Carolina Creek is a great townhouse-style community located about a mile from Eastern Carolina University’s campus. The community consists of 2×3 and 3×3 apartments and contains a full amenity suite including a fitness center, pool, business center, and game room. The community is the best value in the Greenville NC student housing market.

Read Also:

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

Should Service Your Worcester Boiler with SmartGas Edinburgh

Why You Should Service Your Worcester Boiler with SmartGas Edinburgh

If you need a new water heater, it may seem like an insurmountable annoyance to take care of it yourself. Thankfully, if you’re in the Edinburgh area, SmartGas can help you along your way with the following options available to you for work on your home. Installing New Equipment A new boiler can lower energy bills and improve the quality of heating and hot water for your home, saving money over time. But selecting the appropriate model is essential - to do this successfully, find a local company offering free home surveys where you can compare features and prices until you find your ideal boiler! SmartGas of Edinburgh is one of Edinburgh's premier boiler companies, providing homeowners with repair, replacement, maintenance (https://www.homeownershub.com/uk-diy/diy-boiler-servicing-69171-.htm) and financing to cover the costs associated with purchasing their new boiler. With these installers, you can be confident they'll do a quality job. An annual service will ensure that it's functioning optimally and safely, and reduce the risk of it breaking down or creating other issues. Plus, getting it serviced means less expensive repairs down the line! If you're in Edinburgh looking for servicing, make sure that any company you hire is registered with Gas Safe - this official register lists only qualified engineers allowed to legally perform gas work - plus, being insured gives you peace of mind that they'll treat your home with care and consideration. Air-source heat pumps offer another alternative for your heating needs: these highly efficient devices take advantage of latent heat in the air even at lower temperatures to provide both heating and hot water heating needs - cutting energy costs by up to 50 percent in many homes! SmartGas can install air-source heat pumps into your home after creating access points inside and fixing their units outside. Repairing Existing Equipment An annual service is a cost-effective solution to ensure that your boiler remains functioning at optimal performance. A fully qualified engineer can spot any potential faults which could turn into full breakdowns, saving both money and inconvenience by keeping your machine in great shape for as long as possible. An annual service starts with inspecting its exterior parts for corrosion or damage, then having an engineer open up its casing to examine its interior - including heat exchanger, burners, main injector and safety devices as well as condensation trap and fan testing to make sure everything is running as it should be. Once everything is reviewed, an engineer will fire up your boiler and take readings of gas pressure and flow. They will also inspect temperature controls as well as flue terminals to make sure they remain intact and unblocked; finally, they may also clean your combustion blower/fan as necessary. Once your boiler has been tested, it is crucial to inspect for carbon monoxide (CO) emissions. CO is a deadly, colourless and tasteless gas which should never be inhaled directly, which is why Worcester boiler service Edinburgh is so important. These pros can install alarms for carbon monoxide; they should be installed throughout your entire home. According to HSE advice, this should occur especially in living areas or bedrooms. Your engineer will also test the flue gasses and inspect air vents to make sure they remain clear and free from obstruction. In addition, they'll ensure all seals remain undamaged with no signs of leaking or corrosion present. SmartGas' engineers understand the importance of regular services for keeping Worcester machines operating at peak performance, with any issues they identify before they worsen and fixing them before becoming costly repairs later on down the line. It may be worth considering a regular service plan rather than paying one-off fees as payments will be spread over an extended period. Servicing Your Boiler Every year it's wise to have your machine serviced by an engineer registered with Gas Safe or OFTEC to ensure its proper and safe functioning. A regular service usually costs around 120 including VAT; summer tends to be the ideal time as engineers tend to be less busy. An engineer will first inspect your boiler's exterior for signs of corrosion or leakage, before opening up its casing to examine its interior - particularly its heat exchanger, burner, safety devices and flue terminals as well as take readings of gas pressure and flow rates. They'll also perform gas pressure and flow measurements before firing up your boiler to see how it runs - and checking thermostats and controls to make sure they're functioning appropriately. Reputable engineers follow all procedures recommended by your boiler manufacturer, so you can have peace of mind knowing your machine is being serviced to the highest standards. They'll also provide you with a service report detailing everything they've checked and their findings. Professionally inspecting your heating system can also make it more energy-efficient and reduce energy costs, since a well-maintained boiler won't have to work as hard to heat your property. According to estimates, heating accounts for approximately 55% of a typical household's energy bill; so making this investment can help save money! Get your service annually. Engineers from this company will visit your home and carefully consider your heating requirements before suggesting an ideal boiler for you and your property. This ensures you receive maximum benefits from your new purchase without paying over-inflated prices for models that do not match up well with what will work for your heating needs. An added benefit of having it inspected or looked at regularly, as I’ve said above is that it can save money on energy costs. As heating accounts for 55% of household energy usage costs, regular servicing can bring a significant reduction in heating-related energy expenditure costs. Replacing Your Machine SmartGas is one company that’s on hand to assist. Not only are they the most affordable in the city, but they will match you up with a boiler designed specifically to suit your home environment. SmartGas engineers will inspect the boiler for any potential faults, cleaning and inspecting its safety components to keep it operating safely and efficiently. Once finished, they will create a detailed record of their findings that you can keep for your records. Faulty pipes can cause significant damage to your boiler and result in costly repairs, necessitating costly insulation services from approved installers to insulate them and keep them from freezing, while at the same time helping it run more efficiently and preventing condensation which leads to build-ups of sludge and limescale build-ups. To minimize costs associated with this issue, these insulation services must be carried out regularly. Doing this effectively requires regular insulation services from approved installers as this will prevent pipe freezing from freezing while increasing efficiency and reducing condensation accumulation of build-up which in turn helps run a more efficient operation resulting in less repairs needed due to build-up of sludge and limescale build-ups from condensation prevention techniques used on an installed by trained professional installer. Read Also: Home Warranty Plans: How To Choose The Right One We Buy Houses Companies Saving Homeowners From Foreclosure Top Fixer-Upper Improvement Ideas That Make A Huge Impact

READ MOREDetails
Plumbing Pipe

5 Best Type of Plumbing Pipe

Because all plumbing jobs have different risks and requirements, pipe manufacturers make a variety of products for specific maintenance and repair situations. If you select a proper pipe, you'll less likely experience leaks, flooding, and other plumbing problems after all of your fixtures are operational. Make use of the best plumbing pipe that can work well in your favor. At local hardware stores, you'll find many plumbing pipes that can distribute water and process waste. However, if you're looking for the best option for a bathroom or kitchen, there are five pipes that are worth considering. PEX Pipes: PEX piping is one of the most popular options for traditional jobs. They can supply water to various fixtures around a home or building. The housing is very rigid and strong, so these pipes can handle intense pressure from a water supply. It is one of the best plumbing pipe to make things easier for you. It is one of the best plumbing pipe that you can look for. Pros: Thanks to the color-coded designs, you can easily identify pipes for hot and cold water. The cold pipes are blue, and the hot water pipes are red. Every PEX pipe is easy to cut during installation jobs. If a pipe doesn't fit, you can make adjustments by taking advantage of its 90-degree curves. Cons: You can't use PEX pipes with push-fit fittings because leaking may occur. When a pipe breaks and leaks, you can't recycle it. PVC Pipes: PVC pipes are built for drainage and venting jobs. Many plumbers work with these pipes because they're light and simple to use. The big advantage is that PVC piping is easy to cut. You can slice through the product quickly with a hacksaw. Whenever you need to secure PVC pipes together to extend the lines, you can connect them using solvents. Pros: All PVC pipes are inexpensive, and they're great cost-efficient options for irrigation projects. If you ever need to bend a pipe, you can arch its flexible housing. Cons: PVC pipes are only great for simple jobs because they have fragile housing. You can't apply glue on PVC pipes since water may leak through the seal. Ridged Copper Pipes: Ridged copper pipes are also made for water supply in a home, and you can also cut them using a hacksaw. In order to connect a riged copper pipe, you'll need to use a soldering device. Many home builders and commercial building contractors rely on these particular pipes when they design plumbing systems because copper distributes drinking water without contaminating it. Pros: A ridged copper pipe can handle high heat well. It can also withstand intense water pressure. When you no longer need a riged copper pipe, you can easily recycle it. Cons: If you don't have great plumbing skills, the process of connecting ridged pipes with soldering equipment may be challenging. Also, you'll need to set aside plenty of cash to buy ridged pipes since they're expensive. ABS Pipes: ABS pipes are commonly used during jobs that involve drains and vents. These pipes and PVC pipes have similar characteristics. However, the big difference is that ABS pipes have a black housing that's somewhat softer. Pros: If you need great pipes for underground plumbing systems, ABS pipes are ideal options since they're durable and strong. When the temperature drops outdoors, ABS pipes won't break because their housing is engineered for cold weather. Cons: You'll need to use ABS pipes in some locations wisely according to the building code. Also, you must pick the installation zones strategically since high temperatures can cause warping. Flexible Copper Pipes: These pipes are built for sinks, fridges, and water heaters. You can bend them to establish a secure connection during installation jobs, and you can cut them very easily with a sharp hacksaw. Pros: Flexible copper pipes will fit snugly in tight spaces. They can also handle high heat that builds up in confined areas. It is one of the best plumbing pipe that you can look for at your end. Cons: You must handle flexible copper pipes with care to avoid breaking them. Another disadvantage is that the pipes are expensive. Winter Protection Strategies for the Best Plumbing Pipe: After you have proper pipes for a job, you'll need to implement procedures to protect them. Winter is a time when most pipes are damaged. As water freezes in a line, pressure builds up, and the intensity of the expanding ice can crack or break a pipe that isn't properly protected. By following a few simple steps, you'll maintain and protect your pipes whenever the temperature dramatically drops in your neighborhood. Insulation can create a barrier that blocks icy air around your pipes. When applying insulation onto thick or thin pipes, ensure that there are no gaps because air can seep through any opening. Plastic pipes are more vulnerable than copper pipes, so they will need extra protection before a harsh winter storm. Indoor pipes will also need protection against cold weather. You can keep arctic air away from vulnerable pipes underneath kitchen and bathroom fixtures by sealing cracks around your home. Caulking and spray foam is the best sealants for large cracks around doors and windows. Heaters, furnaces, and other heat sources can protect vulnerable indoor pipes as well. To achieve the best results, use indoor heat sources throughout the night because the coldest temperatures occur long after the sun sets. These five piping materials are great options for general residential and commercial projects, and you can protect each product using insulation, sealants, and heat sources throughout the winter. However, along the way, you may need professional help with an installation or maintenance routine. When this happens, always work with a professional plumbing company, such as Conrad Martens Plumbing. Read Also: 8 Plumbing Myths Busted Asphalt Pavement Maintenance Tips 5 Important Tools For Pipe Recovery Operations

READ MOREDetails
Flooring Installation Process

Flooring Installation Process Transforming Your Space With Elegance

When it comes to renovating or building a new space, one of the most crucial aspects is the flooring installation process. The type of flooring you choose can significantly impact the overall aesthetics, functionality, and durability of your space. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the intricate process of flooring installation toronto, providing valuable insights and tips to ensure a successful transformation. Selecting The Right Flooring Material The first step in the flooring installation process is choosing the right material. Whether you opt for hardwood, laminate, vinyl, tile, or carpet, each material has its unique features and benefits. Consider factors such as your budget, the room's purpose, and your design preferences when making this decision. Measuring And Preparing The Space Before the installation begins, accurate measurements of the room are crucial. This step ensures that you purchase the right amount of flooring material. Additionally, you'll need to prepare the space by removing any existing flooring, baseboards, and furniture. A clean, level surface is essential for a smooth installation. Acclimating The Flooring Many flooring materials, especially hardwood, need to acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity levels before installation. This process prevents the flooring from warping or expanding after installation. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for acclimation time. The Installation Process Subfloor Preparation A stable subfloor is the foundation of a successful flooring installation. Ensure that the subfloor is clean, dry, and free of any irregularities. Repair any damaged areas and add an underlayment if necessary. Layout And Design Planning the layout of your flooring is crucial for achieving a polished look. Decide whether you want a diagonal, herringbone, or straight pattern, depending on your design preferences. This step is especially important for tile and hardwood installations. Cutting And Fitting Precise cutting and fitting of the flooring material are essential for a seamless finish. Use the appropriate tools, such as a saw or cutter, to trim the material to fit the room's dimensions accurately. Pay special attention to corners and edges. Installation Method The installation method varies depending on the type of flooring you've chosen. For example, hardwood may be nailed or glued down, while laminate often features a click-and-lock system. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines and use the appropriate adhesives or fasteners. Finishing Touches After the main installation is complete, it's time for the finishing touches. Install baseboards and transitions to create a polished look. Seal gaps and joints to prevent moisture and dirt from seeping underneath the flooring. Maintenance And Care Cleaning And Maintenance Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity of your new flooring. Regularly sweep or vacuum to remove dirt and debris. Use manufacturer-recommended cleaning products to maintain the flooring's finish. Repairing Damage Accidents happen, and flooring can get damaged over time. Whether it's a scratch on hardwood or a chipped tile, knowing how to repair minor issues can extend the life of your flooring. Consult with professionals for major repairs. The flooring installation process is a transformative journey that adds beauty and functionality to your space. By carefully selecting the right material, preparing the space, and following the installation steps, you can achieve stunning results that will stand the test of time. Read Also: How To Pick The Perfect Flooring For Your New Home How to Protect Your Wood Flooring in a Busy Household List of Most Durable Kitchen Flooring

READ MOREDetails