Now that your children have become adults and moved out of the family house, you may find that you have more space than you need.
Moving from the suburbs of New York into a condo, coop, townhouse or rental in Manhattan can be exciting.
However, you may also be thinking about the memories you'll leave behind at the address where you raised your family. Empty nesters are often faced with the challenge of leaving memories behind while moving into a new phase of life.
Knowing what to keep and what to throw away, while choosing a new residence that still has enough space for family gatherings can be a challenge, but the results can also be especially rewarding.
Matt Schwartzberg, of New York City’s Steinway Moving & Storage, says while any move can be stressful, downsizing for the empty nest can be especially so--but it doesn’t have to be, he says.
“Our calmness and expertise is what lets us complete the projects,” he says. “Our job is to protect people’s belongings and get them safely and securely to their new office or home.”
As a staple in the NY area for over 90 years, the company handles both residential and commercial moving. Schwartzberg is also a board member of YPO, New State Movers Association and Long Island Movers Association.
Knowing What to Keep
When you move to a smaller space, you likely won't be able to keep all the furniture and accessories you own. When you're choosing what to keep, it's best to make sure you have all the things that are really important to you.
Small items that remind you of fond family memories can likely be kept, since they won't take up too much space.
Larger furniture pieces such as cribs or tables can potentially stay in the family if you gift them to your children.
Deciding What to Throw Away
Of course, there are also some things you'll have to get rid of, such as worn furniture that can't be properly refinished.
You may also want to go through bins of family items with your children to determine which items they find valuable. While you may have to dispose of some items, your children may want to take some items that have sentimental value. This will make it easier for you to move to your new home clutter-free.
Creating a New Style
Now that you're downsizing, you may want to change up your decorative style as well.
Since there are no children in the home, you may feel more comfortable experimenting with lighter colors and/or glass accessories.
Sofa, chairs, pillows and even throw blankets made from quality materials like silk and Egyptian cotton can also be used in your new decorative scheme to add more sophistication to your new space.
This new chapter in life can be exciting, says Schwartzberg. “My ‘why’ is that I love fulfilling the dreams and plans for those who need to get to their new office or home. The completion of a project and knowing that it had to be done as a team is what drives me everyday.”
Staying Organized
A smaller space can also mean that organization is more of a priority. Since you don't have as much room and you've thrown some items away, you can use stylish wicker baskets, glass or ceramic containers or even a separate storage facility to keep your household items in order.
When your house is free of clutter, your mind will be as well. This will open you up to embark on new adventures, and can make relaxing at your new place even more enjoyable.
Be Open to New Opportunities
Finally, be open to experience new opportunities now that you and your spouse are empty nesters.
Moving to NYC means that it's easier to visit Broadway for a play you've been wanting to see. There are also lots of opportunities to see concerts and attend fashion events. You can even take classes in the city that will increase your skills in your areas of interest.
Moving to NYC also opens you up to interesting restaurants and cultural centers that are close by, which can enhance your overall living experience.
