If you're living in Aspen, you’ve already experienced the perks of a luxury mountain lifestyle. But at some point, you might realize that your current home is too large for your needs. Maybe you want less upkeep, maybe you're spending more time traveling, or maybe it’s time for a change of pace.
Downsizing doesn’t mean giving up the things you love. Instead, it’s about realigning your space with your current lifestyle. You can still enjoy everything Aspen has to offer without all the extra square footage.
Whether you're moving from a sprawling home in the mountains to a more manageable condo downtown, this guide will help you make the transition without stress.
What To Do Before You Start Downsizing
The first step is mindset. You’re not just moving into a smaller space—you’re editing your life to fit what matters most. That takes planning and clear goals.
Start by asking yourself why you want to downsize. Are you aiming for a more efficient space? Hoping to cut costs? Do you want to be closer to Aspen’s restaurants, art galleries, or ski slopes?
Once you’re clear on your goals, it becomes easier to make decisions about what to keep, sell, donate, or let go. This clarity also helps guide your conversations with your real estate agent as you begin your search for the right home.
Start by asking yourself why you want to downsize. Are you aiming for a more efficient space? Hoping to cut costs? Do you want to be closer to Aspen’s restaurants, art galleries, or ski slopes?
Once you’re clear on your goals, it becomes easier to make decisions about what to keep, sell, donate, or let go. This clarity also helps guide your conversations with your real estate agent as you begin your search for the right home.
How To Sort Through Your Belongings
Let’s be honest—this part can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. Go room by room and break things into categories: Keep, Donate, Sell, Trash. If you haven’t used something in the last year, it probably doesn’t need to make the move. Start with less emotional items like duplicate kitchenware or old ski gear you no longer use.
For sentimental items, give yourself permission to keep only the things that truly bring you joy or have a clear purpose in your new space. You’re not losing your memories—you’re making space for new ones.
You can even gift some items to friends or loved ones. That way, the things you care about continue to be appreciated.
For sentimental items, give yourself permission to keep only the things that truly bring you joy or have a clear purpose in your new space. You’re not losing your memories—you’re making space for new ones.
You can even gift some items to friends or loved ones. That way, the things you care about continue to be appreciated.
Choosing the Right Property Size and Location in Aspen
Aspen has a range of smaller properties, from luxury downtown condos to cozy townhomes with incredible views. But don’t just focus on square footage.
Think about your daily routine. Do you want to be able to walk to restaurants and shops? Would you rather stay tucked away with mountain views and peace and quiet? How much storage do you really need? Your agent will help you evaluate what type of home fits your lifestyle now—not five years ago. You might even find that a smaller home brings you more freedom and flexibility than you imagined.
Think about your daily routine. Do you want to be able to walk to restaurants and shops? Would you rather stay tucked away with mountain views and peace and quiet? How much storage do you really need? Your agent will help you evaluate what type of home fits your lifestyle now—not five years ago. You might even find that a smaller home brings you more freedom and flexibility than you imagined.
Smart Storage Solutions That Make a Big Difference
One common concern with downsizing is where everything will go. That’s why choosing a home with smart storage is key.
Look for homes with built-in shelving, under-bed drawers, closet systems, and multipurpose furniture. A Murphy bed or a convertible dining table can completely transform how your space works day-to-day.
Even vertical space matters. Think tall bookshelves, mounted racks, and creative ways to use closet doors. Don’t underestimate how functional a small space can be when everything has a place. You can also consider off-site storage options for items you want to keep but don’t need access to all the time—like holiday decorations or sports gear.
Look for homes with built-in shelving, under-bed drawers, closet systems, and multipurpose furniture. A Murphy bed or a convertible dining table can completely transform how your space works day-to-day.
Even vertical space matters. Think tall bookshelves, mounted racks, and creative ways to use closet doors. Don’t underestimate how functional a small space can be when everything has a place. You can also consider off-site storage options for items you want to keep but don’t need access to all the time—like holiday decorations or sports gear.
Financial Considerations When Downsizing
Downsizing often comes with financial perks, but there are still a few things to keep in mind. You’ll likely save on utilities, maintenance, and property taxes, depending on where you're moving. But don’t forget about transaction costs, HOA fees (especially with condos), and moving expenses.
If you're selling your home, consider how much equity you’ll be able to put toward your next purchase. Talk to your financial advisor or lender about how downsizing could impact your long-term strategy.
Some buyers even use the extra cash from selling a larger home to invest, travel more, or support other life goals. Think about what would bring the most value to your life right now.
If you're selling your home, consider how much equity you’ll be able to put toward your next purchase. Talk to your financial advisor or lender about how downsizing could impact your long-term strategy.
Some buyers even use the extra cash from selling a larger home to invest, travel more, or support other life goals. Think about what would bring the most value to your life right now.
Emotional Challenges Of Letting Go
Letting go of a longtime home is not just a logistical process—it’s an emotional one. It’s perfectly normal to feel a mix of excitement and sadness. You’ve created memories in your current home, and it’s hard to leave that behind. But you’re not starting over. You’re starting fresh—with intention.
Keep the focus on what you’re gaining: freedom, simplicity, and a lifestyle that fits your present, not your past. You might be surprised how light and energized you feel once you make the leap. Many people who downsize say it’s one of the best decisions they’ve made—not just for their homes, but for their entire outlook on life.
Keep the focus on what you’re gaining: freedom, simplicity, and a lifestyle that fits your present, not your past. You might be surprised how light and energized you feel once you make the leap. Many people who downsize say it’s one of the best decisions they’ve made—not just for their homes, but for their entire outlook on life.
What To Look For In A New Home
As you explore new homes in Aspen, be intentional about what you actually want in your next space. Do you want an open-concept kitchen for entertaining? A private balcony with mountain views? Easy access to hiking trails or your favorite brunch spot?
Think in terms of must-haves versus nice-to-haves. You don’t need to sacrifice comfort or style—just be thoughtful about how the space will support your daily life. Your real estate agent can help you narrow down the options and find properties that check the right boxes.
Susan Lodge and Tara Cathcart of Aspen Lodge Properties are ready to help you achieve your home-buying goals in Aspen. Reach out today to begin the journey.
Think in terms of must-haves versus nice-to-haves. You don’t need to sacrifice comfort or style—just be thoughtful about how the space will support your daily life. Your real estate agent can help you narrow down the options and find properties that check the right boxes.
Susan Lodge and Tara Cathcart of Aspen Lodge Properties are ready to help you achieve your home-buying goals in Aspen. Reach out today to begin the journey.
