Downsizing is a fact of life for many people these days. If you are facing what can be a traumatic situation, here’s some advice from Jim Henderson, president of William C. Huff Co., a moving and storage company that specializes in affluent home owners.

• Start early. Once home owners have made the decision to sell, they should start the weeding and moving process. A side benefit is that this winnowing of belongings will make their home more attractive to buyers.

• Begin by eliminating things that aren’t used frequently. Belongings that have been relegated to the basement, the garage or the attic are good candidates for sale or donation.

• Get the whole family involved. Asking grown children to take what they want can painlessly remove a significant portion of belongings.

• Digitize photos and other paper. Storing memories online can keep them safer longer as well as eliminate clutter.

• Suggest to sellers that they consider including the furniture in the sale. This can expedite the transaction for both buyer and seller.

Source: The Wall Street Journal, June Fletcher (01/29/2009)

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