Senior Downsizing in Des Moines Made Simple
From decades of memories to your perfect next home—I'll guide you through every step of the downsizing journey with patience and care.
Understanding the Downsizing Journey
Downsizing isn't just about square footage—it's about transitioning a lifetime of memories into a new chapter. I understand this is emotional, not just logistical.
You're not just selling a house. You're saying goodbye to the kitchen where holiday dinners happened, the backyard where grandchildren played, the bedroom where you've woken up for decades.
That's why I never rush. We move at your pace, honoring what this home means to you while helping you embrace what's next.
The Des Moines Downsizing Process
A clear, step-by-step approach that keeps you in control.
Planning Phase
We start with a no-pressure consultation to understand your situation, timeline, and goals.
- Free in-home consultation
- Home evaluation and market analysis
- Create your personalized downsizing timeline
- Discuss next housing options
Preparing Phase
The hands-on work of getting your home and belongings ready.
- Room-by-room decluttering support
- Estate sale coordination if needed
- Donation and disposal arrangements
- Minor repairs and home preparation
- Professional staging guidance
Selling Phase
Marketing your home and managing the sale with minimal stress on you.
- Strategic pricing based on market data
- Professional photography and marketing
- Showing management (we handle it all)
- Offer negotiation and acceptance
- Closing coordination
Transitioning Phase
Helping you settle into your new chapter with confidence.
- Help finding your next home (if needed)
- Coordinating move dates between closings
- Senior living placement assistance
- Moving company recommendations
- Post-move check-in support
Downsizing Checklist Preview
A few key steps from our comprehensive downsizing guide.
Where Seniors Are Downsizing To
Popular destinations for Des Moines seniors starting their next chapter.
Free Downsizing Tools
Resources to help you plan your transition.
Helping Your Parents Downsize from Afar
If you're an adult child trying to help aging parents sell their Des Moines home while living out of state, I understand your unique challenges.
Distance doesn't have to mean disconnection. I become your boots on the ground—keeping you informed, handling the details, and ensuring your parents feel supported every step of the way.
-
Video Updates
Regular video walkthroughs so you see what's happening
-
Vendor Coordination
I manage contractors, estate sales, and moving companies
-
Family Communication
Group updates so everyone stays informed
-
Emotional Support
Patient guidance for your parents' pace and needs
Bridging the Distance
I work with families from California to Florida helping their Des Moines parents transition. Distance is no barrier to getting excellent care and guidance.
A Real Downsizing Story
How one Des Moines family navigated their transition.
The Johnson Family
45 years in their Beaverdale home → Village Cooperative West Des Moines
The Situation
Richard and Mary had lived in their 4-bedroom Beaverdale home since 1979. Maintenance was becoming overwhelming, and stairs were increasingly difficult.
The Process
We spent 3 months sorting belongings, coordinated an estate sale, and helped their daughter (in Denver) stay connected via video updates.
The Result
Sold their home for $285,000 and moved into a maintenance-free cooperative with a community of new friends.
Their Words:
"We wish we'd done this years ago. Sarah made it possible."
Des Moines Senior Resources
Local services I trust and work with regularly.
Estate Sale Companies
Vetted professionals who handle sales with care
Senior Moving Companies
Movers experienced with downsizing and senior needs
Senior Centers
Community resources and social connections
Golden Concierge
Our partner for senior living placement
Downsizing FAQs
Common questions about the downsizing process.
How do I start downsizing a lifetime of belongings?
Start with a no-pressure consultation where we assess your timeline and goals. Then tackle one room at a time, beginning with the easiest spaces. Create three piles: keep, donate/sell, and discard. I provide a detailed checklist and can connect you with professional organizers and estate sale companies.
How long does the downsizing process take?
Most senior downsizing projects take 2-4 months from start to closing. However, we work at YOUR pace. Some families need 6+ months to sort through belongings and make decisions. There's never pressure to rush—your timeline is what matters.
What if my home needs repairs before selling?
I'll assess which repairs are worth making and which aren't. My 10+ years in property insurance helps me identify issues that matter. I have trusted contractors who work well with seniors and can coordinate all repairs so you don't have to manage multiple vendors.
Can you help if I'm moving to assisted living?
Yes! I partner with Golden Concierge, Des Moines' trusted senior living placement specialists. Together, we can help you find the right community while I handle selling your home. The timing and logistics are coordinated so you're never without a place to live.
What about items I can't take with me?
I connect you with estate sale companies, donation services, and junk removal professionals. For valuable items, we can discuss consignment or auction options. For family heirlooms, I help coordinate distribution among family members before the move.
Ready to Start Your Downsizing Journey?
Let's have a conversation—no obligation, no pressure. Just honest guidance to help you plan your next chapter.
Or call Sarah directly: (563) 513-8771
"No pressure. No obligation. Just honest guidance."
Sarah Ingles, Realtor® SRES®
Trusted Partner
Golden Concierge
Senior living care and placement
yourgoldenconcierge.com
(515) 303-2872
Download the Smart Move Des Moines App
© 2026 Smart Move Des Moines. All rights reserved. | Equal Housing Opportunity
Member of Des Moines Area Association of REALTORS® | MLS Participant
