The Times looks at how to fix the downsizing problem

The Times examines the downsizing problem

The Times has published an article on the housing market headed "How to fix our downsizing problem" (external source). It appears in the newspaper's money section.

If you are moving somewhere smaller

Downsizing is also a question about belongings. A smaller home has less room, and some items will not fit. Our guide says that people downsize for different reasons, and that what to do with belongings that will not fit is one of the points to think about.

Our guide to downsizing without losing what matters suggests deciding what you will keep and what you can let go, and planning how to part with household items you no longer need so that the new place does not feel cramped. It also notes that furniture can decide which home you choose, and that if sorting through your belongings is not an option, you can choose a home where all your furniture will fit. Where to start when clearing a house sets out the order to work in.

Before any clearance, look through the cabinet, the drawers and the loft once. Cameras, watches, medals, toys and old coins, as well as jewellery, silver and gold, can all be looked at before they are given away.

Items you cannot take with you can go in one box with a free postage pack. We carefully value each box and pay a fair price for it, and we make you one offer for the whole box within seven days of arrival. Condition does not matter for most items. You have 14 days to decide, and you are free to say no.