In this video we will discuss the types of
downsizing support available and what areas they tend to specialize.
Which do I need: Organizer, designer, or move manager?
If you’re thinking about making a move and getting a little (or a lot) of professional support for some of the tasks, you may be wondering who would be the best choice. In most cases, the three common options include organizers, designers, or move managers.
So, which one makes the most sense?
Our team here at Buckelew Realty Group is very familiar with all the various types of support for people who are downsizing. We weren’t in the beginning, however. Years ago, we went on a mission to figure out who could best serve our clients as they downsized and we were totally perplexed! It was so confusing!
It’s our hope to make things much easier for you than it was for us in those early days. We’ve outlined the various types of pro’s out there commonly called upon for downsizing and/or relocation related tasks. Also included are a few considerations to remember when trying to determine who to call and at what stage of the process.
Organizers
Organizers are generally people who make it their life’s work to create order out of chaos. They are often very pragmatic and try to help their clients organize things using a system that will work for them over time. Someone might hire an organizer one time and that’s all they need, or they may have an organizer come more often to help keep them (and their stuff) in check.
As far as downsizing or relocation tasks go, most organizers simply deal with the issue of “stuff” as it relates to your current space. They may not be experienced with hiring movers, packing, coordination of estate sales, and other move-specific tasks. With that in mind, it may be better to hire an organizer once you get to your new home.
Designers
Much like organizers, designers are focused on the aesthetic appeal of a home. They are talented at helping people pick out rugs, art, decor, furniture, and accessories. Someone may want to hire a designer to get up to speed on the most current color and home design trends. They can even be a great help when picking out new furnishings that will work in a new home or apartment.
When it comes to downsizing and relocation tasks, however, designers are not likely to help you sort and organize your junk drawer, pull Christmas decor out of the attic, evaluate your or garage full of tools, or meet the estate liquidator to evaluate the likelihood of a successful estate sale.
Move Managers and Senior Move Managers®
Unlike both organizers and designers, move managers are focused on helping people (and stuff) get seamlessly from point A to point B. This includes a variety of tasks both before and after the move itself. Move managers primarily focus on coordination, execution, and oversight of relocation-related tasks. This involves organizational skills, as well as being able to hang pictures, position home decor, and do space planning, but it’s not the same process as with organizers and designers – it’s an entirely different mindset AND skill set.
Move managers with the added specialty of Senior Move Manager® are members of the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) which requires strict guidelines for membership. This elite group not only understands the intricacies of the relocation and downsizing processes, but also has experience with and appreciation for late-life moves involving longtime residences and/or moving to retirement community settings.
So, how do you know if you need an organizer, a designer or a move manager?
Organizer = Need someone to organize stuff with the intention of staying put.
Designer = Need someone to help decorate, choose colors, select accessories for current or new space.
Move manager = Need someone to coordinate and oversee moving from current residence to new residence.
Senior Move Manager® = Need someone who understands and appreciates the challenges associated with making a late-life move or moving from a longtime residence AND has a system or process for making the move more manageable and less overwhelming.
Our team of Certified Downsizing Coaches at Buckelew Realty Group, along with our sister company of Senior Move Managers® at OKC Mature Moves, are happy to help with all your downsizing needs in and around Oklahoma City.
Just give us a call for a free consultation 405-708-7010.
Are you planning for a future move,
but aren’t quite ready yet?
If you are a seasoned homeowner or someone
who plans to downsize from a larger home to a smaller
space in the next few years, you have come to the right place.
Click on the Button Below
to learn how you can join the Oklahoma Downsizers Club.