Is it Time to Downsize Where You Live?
As the maintenance and responsibilities of owning a large home becomes more difficult to manage, you may want to downsize your home. The time and money spent on maintenance might be better spent on cruises or our grandchildren. Downsizing is a common term that refers to selling a big house and moving into a smaller one in order to enjoy all of the benefits that result. It’s so important to be happy in our golden years.
Why Downsize Your Home to Something Smaller?
Let’s run down some quick fire points to help you make your decision on whether or not to buy a smaller home.
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Storage Space
It is true that in a large house, you have more storage space. You may even have one or two unused rooms that allows you to have an office or craft room. But, many have found that when they downsize they learn to use the space they have differently.
One of the best things about small houses is that every space has a function, down to the last corner. By installing a desk in the bedroom or a corner of your living room it is possible to make the most of a smaller home. You may even want to turn otherwise useless space into a storage space using decorative cabinets.
Those who live in small houses know everything about maximizing the space they have. For instance, rather than go horizontally, they go vertically, by installing shelves in place of a nightstand or above the TV or desk. It’s is a great way to increase your storage space and you don’t have huge rooms.
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Less maintenance and work
One of the benefits of a smaller home is that they require less cleaning. It is much easier to keep up with a small, well-organized small house and your cleaning products will last longer. You will have more time to do other things – such as looking for new and creative ways to make the most of your space. It means that you don’t have to keep up with a bigger place while still living comfortably.
Do you need assistance?
It’s always important to have the names and phone numbers of professionals to call when you downsize your home. Whether this is a lawyer or insurance agent, support people help ensure that you know your legal rights and are getting the best deal. With elder law, you can activate those rights. It’s important to know what you want and that you’re getting what you desire.
Pay attention when purchasing or renting a future home to existing facilities, i.e. kitchen-bathroom-electricity and water supplies. You want to know they are in good condition, made from good materials, of sound construction, and sufficient. Does the gas and heating function properly.
When you decide to downgrade you will want to look explore the areas where you plan to purchase, and find out what is available there. It does not necessarily mean that the best area is the most expensive. The “best” is always relevant. Consider what areas areas will offer a great quality of life. Areas closer to a city center, or in the central parts of a neighborhood, are usually more expensive. If mobility issues are not a factor, locations farther away from the hustle and bustle may be preferable and offer easier parking. Whether or not multiple parking spaces are important to you is also worth considering.
Simplifying & Downsizing
Dorothy, I left a comment on your older blog post.
We moved 4 years ago this month. And I couldn’t be happier. Smaller lot, a bit smaller house, and fewer trees. 😀
Fewer leaves to rake! I’m pretty sure it’s in our future and I’m in such a quandary as to what I really want. I been reading your book. It’s so very well written and a good read. Thank you for putting your words on a page.