July 22, 2024 | Selling
Downsizing: Will You Miss The Space?
Inevitably, the time comes when homeowners feel ready to move into a smaller space. Personally, we love hearing from these clients who have bought or sold with us in the past and are gearing up for their next phase of life. Having been in the local real estate market for over twenty years, we’ve helped some families transition through all phases– from newlywed apartments or condominiums to family homes and, lastly, to the final destination of their choice. Staying connected and serving our clients whenever called upon is one of the most gratifying parts of our job as real estate agents. But, when it comes to downsizing, some clients feel especially apprehensive. Will they have enough space? What do they do with all of their accumulated possessions?
The reality is that most of us don’t actually need as much space as we think. Studies show that we tend to use only a fraction of our living space regularly. Where do you spend most of your time at home? Think about how many rooms in your current home sit empty or underutilized. Even though it may be initially overwhelming to consolidate, the downsizing process can actually be freeing. We hear positive feedback all the time from clients who absolutely love their smaller spaces.
Less Stuff, More Savings
Downsizing necessitates getting rid of unnecessary items to accommodate less space. This can be especially scary for some homeowners. We recently worked with a treasured client who was ready to leave the charming Victorian home where she and her late husband raised five children. She was ready but completely overwhelmed with the tasks ahead of her. Luckily, she was willing to work with some of our best vendor partners to sort, declutter and pack up her large home. She felt relieved to see many of her possessions donated to local charities or handed over to grateful relatives. And, once her favorite items were rehomed or packed for her new location, she was able to call upon our junk removal partner to quickly and efficiently clean out the home in preparation for listing with Andersen Group Realty. We can happily report that she is settled in her new condo and thoroughly enjoying her simplified life.
With less room in a downsized home, you’re forced to be more intentional about your possessions and how you use your space. This often leads to a more organized and efficient lifestyle. A smaller space allows you to focus on creating a few high-quality, multi functional areas rather than numerous single-purpose rooms. Your new living room can be set up with a couch and TV in one area, but also have a desk and cabinet acting as a home office in the same room. Changing the look of a smaller space is less expensive and time-consuming, allowing you to update the home more frequently if desired. Downsizing has so many other financial benefits too–even after the closing. With limited storage, you’re less likely to buy things you don’t need, potentially saving money and reducing clutter. Heating, cooling, and lighting a smaller space is also more energy-efficient and cost-effective.
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Making Connections
Sometimes we help families downsize as their children become teenagers in preparation for their empty nesting years. One of the first changes they notice is how much more quality time the family spends together in the smaller space. Teenagers love to scatter in separate corners. In a large house you can easily lose track of each other, but, in a smaller home, family members are more likely to connect and interact. Many people don’t realize this added bonus of downsizing and its power to potentially strengthen relationships.
Less Stress, More Socializing
Less space often equates to less stress. With fewer possessions and less area to manage, many people find they can focus more on experiences rather than things. We can’t tell you how many times clients have expressed relief and joy after they finish the decluttering and moving process. Initially there is stress but we help break down the whole process when clients begin to think about downsizing. After they move, clients feel lighter and truly happier. A smaller space naturally lends itself to a minimalist lifestyle, which many find freeing and less stressful.
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Life Outside the House
With less indoor space, you might be motivated to spend more time outdoors, which can be beneficial for both physical and mental health. One client who loved to use her Peloton for exercise was surprised to find how much she preferred walking outside once she no longer had room for a stationary bike in her smaller home. She met so many new neighbors just by changing that single habit. Getting outside and exploring your new community is the fastest way to introduce new people and new experiences into this next phase of life.
Remember, the amount of space you need is highly personal and depends on your lifestyle, family size, and personal preferences. Don’t be afraid to take risks and let go of old possessions and even old habits. We’ve followed up with many clients who have adapted quickly and didn’t actually miss the extra space at all. The key is to focus on creating a functional, comfortable space that meets your needs, rather than maintaining excess space “just in case.” With thoughtful planning, a downsized life can feel far more satisfying than ever anticipated!
Through helping hundreds of homeowners successfully navigate the downsizing process, Andersen Group Realty is able to streamline what otherwise might seem to be a daunting process, in order to make it as seamless and profitable, as possible.
Thinking about downsizing? Discover Andersen Group Realty’s unparalleled services today. Click here to send us an email or call 781-729-2329 to get started.
