We too are making these decisions, while we are still able-bodied. But we have stairs, into both living levels. The house, which we have kept updated, is 50 years old, so... And we have a large, labor-intensive yard with a pond and many gardens. So a move is in our plans, and we have decided to eventually move to a one-level townhome.
We know we will need a small garden area, a porch or deck and a 2 car garage, which are hard to find. We are committed to staying geographically near our current home, so we have to watch for the "right" one to become available.
In the meanwhile, we are continuing to thin our possessions, which after 40 years is monumental, especially since we are only here 6 months each year. Each summer we choose one area to attack - last year it was 3 outdoor sheds. This year we have begun the garage - eliminating duplicate tools and those no longer used. Recycling or discarding all the stuff we saved "just in case." Removing all the old auto repair items no longer used. Sorting the remainder into easy-to-reach, well labeled totes. So far I have made a scrap-yard trip, a recycling day trip, filled the trash cans countless times, and discarded bundles of old cardboard. Next up: the paint shelves, and sorting 2 generations of hand tools.
My goal is to have only what we need/want when the day comes to move. Or if we decide not to move, to not leave all of that for our kids to deal with.
Sue
We also had to do a lot of remodeling, painting and downsizing before moving to AZ from MI. It’s exhausting and challenging going through years of accumulations. We had a full basement in Michigan that had two additional bedrooms, family room and my husband’s workshop. There are no basements where we are in Arizona. So, we REALLY downsized.
Good luck with your downsizing. I hope you will find a home you love soon!