Our Downsizing Simplified Seminars Deliver Meaningful Information that Helps Understand and Accomplish the Many Steps Involved in the Process.
We implemented our Downsizing Simplified seminars early in our business launch because we knew from our research that many seniors weren’t always clear about the variety of steps and the time involved in downsizing a household. From that expressed need for information, we developed an engaging and enlightening seminar that covers all the major steps of the downsizing process.
Overview of the Seminar Topics
• A desire and willingness to simplify your lifestyle through downsizing• The Pros and Cons of downsizing • Adult children and help from the family • Finding the ideal new living environment; exploring the many possibilities • The importance of space planning; living in comfort, not clutter • Allowing adequate transition time; setting realistic and attainable goals • Tackling the accumulation and excess of life; sorting and paring down • The emotional side of downsizing; leaving a longtime, memory-rich home • Packing up and hiring a professional moving company • Unpacking, getting organized, and settling in • Preparing your home for the real estate market; property enhancement considerations • Selling your home; selecting a qualified real estate agent • Having a sale or auction • Embracing your new lifestyle In addition to these main discussion points, we also touch on the importance of taking the time to set personal review consultations with attorneys and financial advisors. We advise setting these appointments before the move, but if that’s not possible we suggest an appointment shortly after getting settled-in.
Seminar Timeframe and Format
Our seminars are relaxed and informal and are generally held to no more than thirty participants. Depending on the number of questions from attendees, the seminar usually takes about an hour to complete. Each participant is given a take home packet of information for future reference. At the end of each seminar, we ask those in attendance to anonymously evaluate the information we presented along with any additional comments they may have. • Did the seminar meet expectations? • Was the information presented in a clear and helpful manner? • Was there any information not presented that would have been helpful? We’ve collected many feedback evaluations that have validated our presentation materials and have also helped us fine tune and add information.
A Sampling of Seminar Feedback Comments
“Going through the advantages and disadvantages of downsizing really helped me make my mind up about moving...it’s time.”“Putting together a time line to work against was helpful. Being realistic about what I can get done and not putting things off.” “Knowing that I’m not alone in this stage of my life...there are many others thinking about downsizing.” “Exploring the different retirement communities and what they offer. Invite a friend and make a day of it…don’t be intimidated.” “I enjoyed talking about the stuff everybody has and what to do with it. Very helpful tips were given and I am motivated to begin sorting through my things.” “Excellent presentation about the downsizing process and how to approach it sensibly.” “Learning the steps of the downsizing process and the importance of prioritizing.” “Understanding that leaving my home could involve grieving and that I should talk with someone if I need to.” “How important it is to stay focused on a task and not become overwhelmed. Ask for help if I need it. Take small manageable steps toward goals.” “Fun and informative. Time went fast…we could have kept going.” “I know I can’t keep everything. I need to think about what’s really important in my new lifestyle. Living in comfort, not clutter!”
Places We Present Our Seminars
• Independent living/retirement communities (within the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan area and nationwide, typically hosted or sponsored by corporate-owned communities)
• Assisted living communities (within the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan area and nationwide, typically hosted or sponsored by corporate-owned communities)
• Churches and Synagogues
• Clubs and Organizations
• Community Centers
• School Districts (Community or Continuing Education classes)
• Public Libraries
• Companies or Corporations (hosted by Human Resource Departments for the benefit of older workers or adult children/Sandwich Generation)
• Law Firms (particularly those who specialize in Elder Law and estate planning)
• Real Estate Firms/Brokerages (general seminar with emphasis on the importance of planning and property enhancements)
If you would like more information about our Downsizing Simplified seminars or would like to schedule a seminar, please contact Cindy Murphy at 816/358-6338, Mon. – Fri., 9:00 am -5:00 pm, (Central Standard Time).
We can also be reached via email at: inforequest@downsizingsimplified.com or through the "CONTACT US" page on our web site.
Click to View Our Scheduled Downsizing Seminars
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