Are you a senior in Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, West Bloomfield, Troy, Royal Oak, Berkley, or Franklin thinking about downsizing your home? 🏡📦 The idea of moving to a smaller, more manageable space is exciting—but the biggest challenge is often figuring out how to declutter decades of belongings from your current home.

As a certified SRES® (Senior Real Estate Specialist®), Shaun Shaya has helped seniors across Michigan transition smoothly from large family homes to homes that better fit their current lifestyle. Decluttering is the first step toward a fresh start, and with the right approach, it can even be a rewarding experience.

1. Start Early to Avoid Stress

Decluttering takes longer than most people expect. Shaun recommends beginning the process weeks or even months before your move to reduce last-minute stress and make your transition smoother.

2. Make a Room-by-Room Plan

Tackle one area at a time—whether it’s a room, closet, or category of items. Set deadlines for each section so you can track progress and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

3. Focus on Items You Use Less

Start by letting go of items you rarely use, are less valuable, or carry minimal sentimental attachment. By starting small, you’ll gain momentum and confidence to tackle the more challenging pieces.

4. Discard Duplicates

Most households have multiples of the same items—extra coffee makers, duplicate dishes, or spare linens. Removing duplicates can free up significant space and make packing easier.

5. Follow the “One Year” Rule

If you haven’t used an item in the past 12 months, chances are you won’t need it in the future. This simple guideline can make tough decluttering decisions easier.

6. Ask for Help

Decluttering can be emotional, especially when leaving a long-time family home. Shaun recommends involving family members, friends, or professional organizers to provide both practical and emotional support.

Why Work With Shaun Shaya for Downsizing

Beyond decluttering, Shaun Shaya is your trusted partner in finding the perfect downsized home in Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, West Bloomfield, Troy, Royal Oak, Berkley, and Franklin. From understanding your unique needs to coordinating every detail of the sale and move, Shaun ensures seniors enjoy a stress-free transition.

"Decluttering isn’t just about letting go of things—it’s about creating space for the life you want to live next," says Shaun.

Ready to start your downsizing journey? Contact Shaun Shaya today to get expert guidance and support every step of the way.