DOWNSIZING
Whether you’re an empty nester moving from a large family house into a smaller home, or tired of cutting the grass and heading to a condo, or just want to live a more simplified life, the process of downsizing can prove stressful, overwhelming and time-consuming. At Next Step Baltimore, we carefully handle every stage so you feel cared for and confident that we are taking care of all the details.
When it comes to downsizing, deciding what to sell, donate, hand down, remove or keep can be an involved process. While it’s easy to toss dusty cocktail napkins and expired cans of food, figuring out what to do with a set of antique china or a nearly-new TV can be a different story. Our considerable know-how and experience will streamline the process and help you figure out which option is best for every item in your home.
Everything has a place; we help you find it
The first part of downsizing is to get rid of things that are easy to let go. Old hotel shampoos, dry rotted boots, threadbare blankets – toss! We help you sift through the clutter and arrange for the removal of all unwanted items.
Selling that makes sense
Auction, consignment or EBay? Are those first-edition books worth selling? Selling can be worthwhile and lucrative for some clients, but it’s hard to gain the best return when you don’t know the current market or the right place to go. It’s important to approach selling with a clear understanding and realistic expectations. Many clients are surprised to find that their treasures are not always worth as much as they thought. Our experience makes the process clear and gives you the best return possible.
Donating for the good of others and your closet space
Donating unwanted or unneeded items benefits both the community and your downsizing goals. We provide the information that saves time and money. Charitable donations are tax deductible, but the IRS can be very picky about claims. We take photographs of high value items, such as designer clothing – and we can provide the IRS list of suggested values.
We know a variety of donation options and can arrange transportation or pick up. When necessary, we find alternatives to usual donation centers.
Before any item of yours is sold or donated, we diligently go through every pocket, drawer, folder, etc. Over the years we have found many a long-lost diamond pin, car titles, wads of cash and even two Orioles’ World Series rings!
Handing down with care…
For items you want to keep among friends and family, we take all the steps to get your possessions safely to your loved ones. Whether sending an item across town or across the country, we will take care of the sorting, packing and shipping.
Planning: our precise process, your peace of mind.
When moving from a larger space to a smaller one, it is important to carefully plan where everything will go, before the moving truck pulls to the front door. For new homes, even apartments and condos, have accurate floor plans, Next Step Baltimore will measure everything. We note all bulkheads, electric, cable and phone outlets, linear feet available for books, clothing and shoes.
Once we know every square inch of our client's home, we measure all furniture pieces intended for the move and place them on the floor plan. If possible, Next Step Baltimore will also map out furniture with tape on the floor of the new place. When clients see how things will fit, they can visualize the space and make any needed adjustments. Our detailed planning gives clients ultimate peace of mind.
Packing and moving: our experience makes it easy
Packing can be time-consuming, especially when you want to stay organized and protect your possessions. Next Step Baltimore will pack and label all your valuables and provide tips for how to save money on the moving expenses. On the day of the big move, we direct the movers and make sure all furniture is put in the right place. When you arrive at your new home, we will have the boxes unpacked, packing material removed, clothes hung up, medicine cabinets filed, linens in the bathroom and beds made. Moving is an emotional experience. Next Step Baltimore wants you to end the day with a smile and the ability to get a good night’s sleep.