Hiring a Downsizing Specialist.
8 hours ago
5 min read
Episode #28: This week, the "Living Smaller & Loving It!" blog post explains what a Downsizing Specialist does, why you may need one, and how to hire one. This information is from my new how-to downsize book, "RELAX you're going to do great!", publishing in early-to-mid October 2026.
In the book, I share 20 years of experience and provide step-by-step guidance whether you're considering a downsizing move, currently on the journey, or choosing to stay in your home and want to pare down, declutter, and freshen up your environment. The how-to guide will take you through the downsizing process, from beginning to end.
Reserve your copy today through the website's Contact page.
(You will be notified when the book is published.)
It’s true that not everyone who downsizes needs help from family or friends or from an outside service provider such as a downsizing specialist. But if you decide to get outside help, hiring the right person can speed up the process and ease some of the weariness that often occurs with downsizing.
It might be time to ask for help if:
You're unsure where to begin.
You're feeling overwhelmed and don't know what to do next.
You don't have a working plan in place to follow.
You are struggling with making decisions.
You lack energy, and the desire to continue may be fading.
In my many years as a downsizing specialist, I’ve helped clients avoid burnout, step back and course-correct, and ease or eliminate some of the burdensome strains associated with the process. Downsizing is not easy, especially when a move is involved, and there is a house full of stuff to sort through and pare down. Decision-making never seems to end, and it can get more difficult with age. Decision fatigue is real, and many people struggle with it.
Let's talk.
During a consultation, I can tell how serious the customer is about downsizing. My goal is a working partnership, and here are some of the things I need from the customer to achieve a successful outcome:
A desire and willingness to succeed—there must be a 100% “buy-in” and readiness to begin. Time is often a critical factor, and avoiding a “headlong and harried” approach is important; small, orderly steps add up to huge gains.
An open mind and the ability to consider different approaches and opinions—letting go of preconceived ideas about the “right way” to do things and staying receptive to alternatives, especially when they are professionally presented. Preferably, no digging in of heels.
A serious understanding of the steps ahead. Having the ability to view the process in small, achievable steps and avoid too much “big picture” thinking, which can become an anxiety-ridden time-trap. Putting a workable plan in place can help avoid these traps.
Commitment. Readiness matters from the start, and even on those “off” days, the commitment should continue, maybe at a lesser pace, but still continue. The end result must drive the commitment to avoid a struggle that can grow and eventually cause frustration and possibly abandonment of goals. The resolve must be strong!
At consultation, my job is to listen (with eyes and ears), assess the situation, and explain how I can help achieve a smooth transition. All of the above points will determine a successful working partnership—there must be a comfortable professional “fit”.
Often one of the wisest decisions a homeowner (moving or aging in place)—or adult children preparing to help a parent—can make is to hire an experienced, non-judgmental downsizing specialist. Knowing who to look for, what questions to ask, and how to evaluate their fitness for your situation all play important roles when hiring.
Know What Type of Downsizing Specialist You Need.
Not all specialists offer the same services, but all should offer a variety of (non-medical) services to choose from.
Many are flexible and can quickly tailor their services to meet the clients’ specific needs. Professionalism, industry knowledge, and flexibility, among other qualities, are key when hiring a downsizing specialist or company.
Here are some offerings of a full-service downsizing specialist or company to consider:
A thorough understanding of the downsizing process.
Expertise in planning.
Strong supervisory skills.
Proficiency in organizing and decluttering—good for moves and aging-in-place.
Pre-move management tasks such as sorting, paring down, packing, and decision support. Setting up and supervising the move.
Post-move management: unpacking, organizing, and settling in.
Extensive knowledge of industry-related vendors and professional alignment capabilities.
Ability to work closely with family members when needed, serving as a single point of contact for issues and progress updates.
Capability to assist with a variety of post-move tasks the client or family may need.
Additional helpful information you'll find in "RELAX you're going to do great!":
Questions to ask at the consultation.
Your ideal Downsizing Specialist should...
How much does a specialist cost?
Where to find the help you need?
HIRING TIP: Please allow enough time to interview downsizing specialists so you (and your family) can make the right hiring decision. This is an important working relationship, and you should know the “fit” is right.
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"Downsizing is about making life more manageable. It's about assessing what's most important, editing, and eliminating the unimportant. It's living a smaller, more enjoyable life and loving the outcome." -Cindy Murphy, Downsizing Simplified
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