Are you thinking about downsizing your home now that the kids are grown up and you’re enjoying retirement? Downsizing is a step most people make as they enter retirement and become empty nesters. With the kids gone, there is no need to have such a large space and property to maintain—with a smaller home, you can spend less time on cleaning and home maintenance, and more time traveling, playing golf, and lounging at the country club pool. You might even be able to afford a second home or condo in one of your favorite vacation destinations if you downsize.

When making the transition from a large 3000+ square foot home to a smaller, cozier space it is important to understand what you want and need out of your new home. Will you need rooms for your grandkids to visit, or studio space to explore your creative side? What about a pool? You might enjoy going for early morning swims, or maybe you never want to own a home with a pool again because the maintenance is too much of a hassle! Deciding how much space and what amenities you require to live comfortably will make the downsizing transition easier.

Part of downsizing is figuring out what you can and can’t live without. When downsizing, chances are you will need to get rid of some of your furniture and home goods. Use this as a time to declutter your life—get rid of old furniture, clothes you haven’t worn in years, and mismatching Tupperware. Donate everything you don’t want or need, and you will feel organized and ready to tackle the downsizing process!

Downsizing your home doesn’t mean you have to compromise your views. Look for a new home with scenic surroundings—downsize your home but upsize your views! A home with Bi-Fold Patio Doors makes it easy to fold doors open and enjoy the weather on your balcony or deck and get lost in the expansive views. Pocketing Multi-Slide Doors slip into the wall pocket, disappearing completely out of sight, leaving nothing but open views in their wake. A home with such luxury patio doors should be on your wish list—not only do these patio doors maximize the view, folding doors and sliding doors expand your living space which is the perfect solution when you have visitors in your new home and need the extra entertainment space!

Downsizing is a great time for you to redecorate your new space and create a new design scheme for your home. Look for interior design inspiration in Luxe Magazine, Pinterest, and Houzz. Channel your inner interior designer and choose colors, textures, and styles you love, and if you’re feeling risky, go a little bit out of your comfort zone on some design aspects! You don’t have to get rid of all your old décor—choose a new theme that channels elements of your old space. The goal is to create a beautiful living space that you will enjoy spending time in!