When people reach out to me about a design project, it's usually because they're looking for a change. Some are ready for a full remodel, and some simply want to update what's already there. But more and more, here in Denver, that change comes with a move - trading a house that's grown too big for a high-rise condo that fits the life they're living now. And one of the most common reasons behind that kind of downsizing is also one of the hardest: the death of a spouse or partner.
While it can be tempting to make a major move soon after something like this happens, most financial experts encourage people to slow down before making such a big decision.
“I've seen people make big financial and real estate decisions very soon after losing their spouse,” says Kristi Sullivan with Sullivan Financial Planning, LLC. “Often they're acting out of overwhelming emotion and not considering the full financial implications of their actions. I encourage clients to make changes to their current homes if they can — it's a lot easier to repaint than it is to undo a move that you regret.”
For many Denver homeowners, that “wait and see” approach means staying in the family home a little longer, or making thoughtful updates to a condo they've already chosen, before deciding whether a bigger move is really the right one.
“When my husband passed, one of the first things I did was redecorate our bedroom,” says Confessions of a Mediocre Widow author Catherine Tidd. “I needed a retreat and a space that was mine. Throughout the following years, I made other small changes to the house, but creating that sanctuary was the best thing I could have done for myself. I later found out that that's something a lot of other widows do, too.”
In a condo, where every room tends to serve more than one purpose, that kind of sanctuary space matters even more. A smaller footprint doesn't mean less room to make it yours; it just means being a little more intentional about what earns a spot.
But sometimes making those changes feels overwhelming, especially when you're also adjusting to downsizing, a new building, and an unfamiliar routine all at once. That's why I've put together a few downsizing tips you can start with on your own and a few things an expert can help with.
I know from working with many clients through life transitions, including the move into a new condo, that making even small changes can feel overwhelming. But the result is a comforting home, inviting, and completely their own. By making thoughtful choices, both big and small, you're not only remembering your loved one - you're creating a space that feels good the moment you walk through the door.
If you're ready for some help with that transition, I'd love to talk. Schedule a design consultation, and let's create a space that fits the life you're living now.
