Downsizing

Military Memorabilia

13, Nov 2023

Last year, during an estate clearout, the Out of Chaos team found some military medals. We posted a few pictures of them on social media. Colleague Jacki Hollywood chimed in and identified the medals for us. This year, I thought it was fitting to have her write a guest post… Read more

The Costs of Downsizing

18, Sep 2023

Many times, I’ve mentioned the benefits of downsizing. The people who downsize enjoy a safer home with lower maintenance even if they do not move to a new house. But it isn’t easy. The costs of downsizing are emotional and financial. And those costs depend on what you plan to… Read more

How to Clear Out Your Storage Unit

15, May 2023

People rent storage units for many reasons. They might need to store household goods during a home renovation or when moving from one house to another. Occasionally, families need to downsize an older relative to a smaller home, and they need more time to sort through all the possessions, so… Read more

Declutter Your Outdoor Space

17, Apr 2023

Sometimes, our outdoor spaces can become a catch-all for everything we don’t want inside our homes, especially over the cooler months. But tossing all our junk in the yard won’t make us the darlings of the neighbourhood. In fact, a recent survey indicates one of the top factors respondents cited… Read more

What to Do With Your Used Books

17, Oct 2022

I must admit there’s something special about books. A lovely old-fashioned read is not only good for the brain but also for the soul. The ideas in these titles help mould our identities, and the characters – even the fictional ones – become cherished friends. So, how do you declutter… Read more

A Treasure Hunt Can Make Downsizing Fun

16, May 2022

The words ‘decluttering’ and ‘downsizing’ can have negative connotations. They imply loss and restriction – the world and everything in it is shrinking. On the other hand, a treasure hunt suggests adventure, excitement, and new possibilities. Here are some ways to turn the chore of downsizing into an exciting experience…. Read more

The Estate Clearing Process

18, Apr 2022

Clients contact Out of Chaos to clear out a house after the owners have moved to a smaller home. Sometimes the homeowners have passed away, and the heirs need to sell the house quickly. However, they don’t have the time or ability to handle all the work that the estate… Read more

Helping Seniors Move: Tips to Make it Easier

07, Feb 2022

Moving to a new home is challenging. In many cases, it is even more stressful for seniors who may have no desire to move but have little choice. The experience may be confusing and even traumatic for those with memory loss. But it doesn’t have to be. Read our tips… Read more

Investment Executive: Take a Load Off

23, Nov 2021

I was quoted in Investment Executive last week in a retirement and downsizing article entitled, Take a Load Off. I highlighted some practical steps retirees can use to organize their estate. It will reduce the burden on their executors after they have passed on. On Purging Possessions… One challenge is… Read more

Downsize Your Collection

18, Oct 2021

You have spent a lifetime building your collection of artwork, figurines, stamps, toilet seats, or Star Wars memorabilia. You’ve spent time and money carefully curating pieces that bring you joy and add value. Over the years, you have acquired knowledge and become an expert. But now you are moving to… Read more