Downsizing Checklist
A 90-Day Downsizing Checklist
A successful downsizing does not happen by accident. It takes planning, clear milestones, and a realistic timeline. This 90-day checklist breaks the entire process into weekly goals so you know exactly what to do and when to do it. Whether you are downsizing your own home in Potomac or helping a parent sell their Bethesda home, this timeline will keep you organized, on track, and moving forward at a comfortable pace.
About the Author
Marc Cormier, Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
Marc Cormier is a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty, licensed in Maryland (#620443). He holds the Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation and is certified in luxury marketing, divorce real estate, distressed property, and international property. Marc has been ranked in the top 1% of Realtors nationwide and serves homeowners across Montgomery County, including Potomac, Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Rockville, and the surrounding communities in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC.
Overview
The 90-Day Timeline at a Glance
Days 1-30
Plan & Declutter
Consult, plan, sort belongings, start cleanout
Days 31-50
Repair & Stage
Repairs, updates, staging, photography
Days 51-90
Market, Sell & Move
List, show, negotiate, close, move out
Before you start, use the downsizing cost calculator to understand your projected equity, sale costs, and what downsizing could free up financially.
Phase 1
Days 1-30: Plan, Consult, and Declutter
The first month is the most important. A strong start sets the tone for everything that follows.
Week 1: Initial Consultation and Planning
- Schedule a free consultation with Marc (an SRES agent who understands downsizing)
- Walk through the home together to assess condition and needed repairs
- Discuss your timeline, goals, and budget
- Review comparative market analysis and estimated net proceeds
- Decide on sales strategy: make repairs, sell as-is, or repairs-paid-at-closing
Week 2: Start Decluttering Room by Room
- Start with the spaces you use least: attic, basement, guest rooms
- Use the three-box method: keep, donate or sell, discard
- Contact family members about heirlooms and sentimental items they want
- Schedule a professional organizer if needed (Marc can coordinate)
- Arrange for donation pickups (Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill offer free pickup)
Week 3-4: Continue Decluttering and Begin Cleanout
- Complete decluttering of main living areas, kitchen, and bedrooms
- Schedule estate sale if you have valuable items to sell
- Arrange full-service cleanout for remaining items
- Measure your new home's rooms and create a floor plan for furniture placement
- Set aside items you are taking to the new home and pack them carefully
Need help decluttering? Marc coordinates with professional organizers and estate sale companies who handle the process with sensitivity and efficiency. Learn about decluttering services.
Phase 2
Days 31-50: Repairs, Updates, and Staging
With the home decluttered and cleared, it is time to focus on presentation.
Week 5-6: Complete Repairs and Updates
- Fresh paint throughout in neutral, modern colors
- Refinish hardwood floors if needed
- Update lighting fixtures and hardware
- Professional landscaping and curb appeal refresh
- Address any deferred maintenance identified in the walk-through
- Consider a pre-listing home inspection to identify issues early
Week 7: Professional Staging and Photography
- Professional staging furniture and decor are brought in
- High-quality photography and virtual tour are scheduled
- Review and approve marketing materials
- Final walk-through to ensure everything is show-ready
- Confirm listing date with Marc
No cash for repairs? Marc's repairs-paid-at-closing program lets his licensed contractor handle the work now, with costs deducted from the sale proceeds at closing. Learn more.
Phase 3
Days 51-90: Market, Sell, and Move
The home is ready. Now it is time to attract buyers, negotiate the best offer, and complete the move.
Week 8: List and Market the Home
- Home goes live on MLS and all major real estate platforms
- Targeted digital marketing campaign begins
- Open houses and private showings are scheduled
- Keep the home show-ready at all times
Week 9-10: Review Offers and Negotiate
- Marc presents and reviews all offers with you
- Negotiate price, terms, and contingencies
- Accept the best offer and sign the purchase agreement
- Buyer completes inspection and appraisal
Week 11-13: Close and Move
- Final walk-through with the buyer
- Coordinate final moving date with Marc's team
- Transfer utilities and change address with USPS
- Closing day: sign documents, receive proceeds
- Hand over keys and celebrate your new chapter
Bonus
Downsizing Prep Checklist: What to Do Before Moving Day
Beyond the home sale itself, there are practical tasks you will want to handle before moving day. Here is a handy checklist.
Documents
Gather tax returns, insurance policies, wills, estate plans, and property deeds. Keep them accessible during the move.
Address Changes
Notify USPS, banks, credit cards, insurance, Medicare, Social Security, and all subscription services of your new address.
Service Transfers
Schedule utility transfers or cancellations for electric, gas, water, internet, cable, and trash service.
Healthcare
Transfer prescriptions to a pharmacy near your new home. Update your primary care provider if moving to a new area.
Keys and Access
Collect all spare keys, garage door openers, and security codes. Leave one set for the buyer at closing.
Emergency Contacts
Keep a list of important phone numbers handy: Marc, your attorney, family members, and your moving company contact.
Why Use This Checklist with a Seniors Real Estate Specialist?
This checklist is designed to give you a clear roadmap, but the real value comes from having an experienced guide who coordinates every step for you. Marc Cormier, SRES, does not just hand you a checklist and send you on your way. He personally manages the vendors, the timeline, and the details so you have one point of contact for everything.
As your Seniors Real Estate Specialist, Marc helps you navigate the financial, emotional, and logistical aspects of downsizing. His vetted vendor network handles decluttering, estate sales, repairs, staging, and moving. His repairs-paid-at-closing program covers repairs without out-of-pocket expense. And his compassionate, no-pressure approach ensures you move at a pace that feels right for you.
Ready to Start Your 90-Day Countdown?
Marc offers a free, private, no-pressure consultation to discuss your timeline, your home, and your goals. Together you will build a personalized downsizing plan that fits your life.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About the Downsizing Timeline
Quick answers to common questions about the 90-day downsizing timeline.
Can I downsize in less than 90 days?
Yes, it is possible to downsize in 60 days or fewer if you are motivated and the home does not need significant repairs. The timeline depends on how quickly you can declutter, whether repairs are needed, and how fast the home sells. Marc has helped clients complete the process in as little as 45 days. The 90-day timeline is designed for a comfortable pace without rushing.
What if I need more than 90 days?
That is perfectly fine. Many downsizers take 4 to 6 months, especially if there is a large volume of belongings to sort through or if the family wants to move slowly. Marc's approach is to let you set the pace. The 90-day checklist is a framework, not a requirement. You can stretch any phase to fit your needs.
Do I need to complete every step on this checklist?
Not necessarily. Some steps, such as major repairs or full staging, may not apply to your situation. Marc will help you customize the checklist based on your home, your timeline, and your goals. For example, if you are selling as-is, you may skip the repair phase entirely and move directly from decluttering to listing.
Have a question not answered here?
Ask Marc DirectlyContinue Learning
Related Guides and Resources
Should I Downsize in Retirement?
Honest questions to help you decide if downsizing is right for you in retirement.
Read MoreCost to Downsize in Montgomery County
A detailed breakdown of the costs of downsizing and how to pay for it from sale proceeds.
Read MorePreparing the Home for Sale
Repairs, staging, and marketing to maximize your sale price in the Montgomery County market.
Read MoreWhat Happens to Everything?
Guidance on sorting, selling, donating, and moving a lifetime of belongings during a downsizing.
Read MoreWhere Will I Move?
Explore condos, 55+ communities, townhomes, and smaller homes across Montgomery County.
Explore OptionsBook a Consultation
Schedule a private, no-obligation conversation with Marc to discuss your downsizing goals and timeline.
Schedule NowBuild Your Personalized Downsizing Plan
Marc would be honored to help you turn this checklist into a personalized plan that fits your home, your timeline, and your life. No pressure, no obligation, just expert guidance.
Thank you.
I will be in touch shortly to discuss your downsizing goals.
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