The prospect of downsizing and moving to a smaller home or to a senior living community can be daunting. So much so that older adults often put off a move they’d really like to make. Cleaning out the attic and packing up the shed. Figuring out which belongings to keep and which ones to donate. Asking who might be interested in family heirlooms. All of this might feel overwhelming.
One solution to consider is hiring a senior move manager.
Many people are unfamiliar with this group of professionals who are experienced at managing all of the details of downsizing and relocating. From supervising the movers to cleaning out the basement, they can make the transition go more smoothly.
What Tasks Can Senior Move Managers Handle?
Move managers work with families one-on-one to accomplish the many tasks associated with moving. Here are a few of the most common:
- Cleaning out closets, attics, basements, and cupboards
- Creating a floor plan to determine what will fit at the new home
- Arranging for estate sales, online auctions, or garage sales
- Interviewing and hiring moving companies
- Coordinating moving day details with senior living community staff
- Hiring a cleaning service after the move is completed
- Working with realtors and staging professionals to prepare home for sale
- Unpacking boxes at the senior living community and setting up the new apartment
While this isn’t an exhaustive list, it is a good sampling of how a senior move manager can make this process easier on the older adult and their family.
If this sounds like a helpful solution for you, the next step is to locate and interview potential candidates. Here are a few tips for making that experience a little easier.
How to Find a Senior Move Manager
The National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) maintains a database of members on its website. These are certified professionals who have completed training on a variety of topics, including ethics, liability, safety, and the moving industry.
NASMM also screens each member to make certain they are insured. That’s essential for giving seniors and their loved one’s peace of mind.
What to Ask Senior Move Manager Candidates
As is the case when you are hiring a contractor of any type, knowing what to ask is vital. Here are a few questions to help you find an experienced senior move manager you feel confident about:
- How long have you been a senior move manager?
- How many older adults have you assisted with a move?
- Are you bonded and insured for theft and damage?
- Do you have employees who work for you or are they subcontractors?
- Do you maintain workers' compensation for your employees?
- Do you have partnerships in place with other professionals, such as moving companies and realtors?
- How do you charge for your services? Hourly or by the job?
- What form of payment is accepted?
- Will a deposit be required up-front? Is it refundable if something unexpected happens?
- Do you provide a written contract that explains pricing and services?
- Can you share 3 to 5 references of past clients who are willing to answer questions?
Explore Our Moving and Downsizing Resources
If you are considering downsizing and moving to a smaller home or a senior living community, we encourage you to download our free checklist for selling your home. It will help make your transition easier with advice from real estate experts!
Our independent living community in Oxnard, CA, Clearwater at Riverpark, will be hosting a Lunch & Learn on moving and downsizing on January 23rd, 2020 at 10:30am. If you are in the area, join us for this informative and fun seminar where experts will provide tips on how to simplify the downsizing process. RSVP to 805-366-3446 or RiverparkMarketing@ClearwaterLiving.com today!