Moving requires a lot of decisions. And when it comes to choosing what items to bring with you to your new home, I always talk to my clients about the “3 Passes Approach”. When you’re moving or downsizing, this method can be beneficial.
First Pass
When you’ve decided to move or downsize, walk through your current space. Look at your furniture and possessions and make a “Keep Pile.” This can be an actual physical pile or a list. Deciding what to keep is always emotional. Fond memories and attachments usually draw you to save many things. It is completely understandable. Add all these items to your Keep Pile.
Second Pass
As you keep adding to the pile, it grows. Once you have completed sorting in the initial walk-through, revisit your Keep Pile. You’ll see the volume of what you’re holding on to. At this point, you may realize you don’t have enough room in your new home to keep everything or the cost to move some of these items can be prohibitive. The Second Pass comes when you decide you must reduce the size of that initial Keep Pile. Edit down these items by giving them to friends or family, donating to charity, or finding another home.
Third Pass
Once the pile of items to keep is packed and moved into your new home, you can do the Third Pass. As you unpack items out of their box, you will see them in a new light. In fact, you may have a “What was I thinking?” moment! The style, colour, or size may not fit in your new home. This can be the final edit stage.
With the 3 Passes Approach, I guarantee you’ll be living in your new home with just the right items. If you need assistance with downsizing or moving, be sure to check out our move management services.
