At some point, many of us consider downsizing to a smaller, more manageable, and more affordable home. But it’s not an easy decision to make. If you’ve spent decades slowly climbing the property ladder, the idea of moving to a smaller, less valuable home can feel like a step backward, and if you’ve raised your children in your current home, you may feel emotionally attached and struggle to let go.
But most people find that a move is the right choice. Downsizing has many benefits, and most people manage to keep all their happy memories without the need to stay in the same place. You can love a house, cherish your memories of being there, but still successfully and happily make a new property your home. If you are tempted by downsizing, here are some of the signs that it’s time to take the plunge.
Rooms are Closed Off
Often the first sign that your home is bigger than it needs to be is that rooms are sealed off, empty, or completely unused. These rooms are a waste of space and money. They can mean that it’s harder to keep your home warm, and if you don’t regularly clean them, they can become dusty, start to smell musty, and affect the atmosphere of your whole house.
You Can’t Keep It Tidy
Very few people enjoy housework, but as you get older you might struggle with the psychical demands of keeping even a fairly small house clean and tidy. If you are struggling to keep on top of things, why not move somewhere smaller and make your life easier?
You Need to Reduce Expenses
Bigger houses are typically more expensive to manage than smaller homes. Bills will be more, but there are also more risks of things breaking and needing repair work.
You’re Ready for a Change
Downsizing doesn’t have to mean moving to a smaller house or flat. A popular option for many seniors is moving into a senior living facility. Search for senior living facilities near me like Belmont Village Senior Living to see how it might improve your independence, social life, health, fitness, diet, and quality of life. If you feel bored, lonely, fed up, or ready for a new challenge, this can be an excellent option.
You’ve Retired
Many people only live where they live to be close to school or work. We make housing decisions out of necessity. Once you are retired, you might have new freedom to live in a new location, and downsizing while you move might mean that you can afford different locations.
You Feel Lonely or Uncomfortable
If you have a large house, you might find that as you get older it starts to feel lonely, empty, and even a little frightening.
Your Home Reminds You of Bad Times
Many people find, for example, that once their partner passes away, they no longer feel the same about their home. You might find it easier to move on, and create a new life as a single person, without all of the memories of the loss to hold you back.
Downsizing, or moving into an independent living community can be a great move. But it’s not a decision that you should take lightly. Take some time to think about your options and speak to your family before you commit to anything.