Are you wondering if it’s time to downsize?
The term downsizing simply means selling your home to buy a smaller one. But while the definition is easy to understand, the decision certainly isn’t easy to make. Choosing to sell your home is a big decision. And downsizing can feel like an even bigger one.
People sell their homes in exchange for a smaller one for many different reasons. But it’s usually because the space isn’t right for them anymore.
If you’re unsure whether you’re ready to downsize, here are five signs it might be time to make the move.
1. It’s Hard to Maintain
The bigger the house, the harder it is to maintain – and that’s a fact. From general repair work to regular hoovering, there’s a lot that needs to be done to keep a house in check.
If you’re struggling to keep up with the maintenance of your home, because of changes in your mobility or just because your priorities are different, downsizing can make these things much more manageable.
2. You Have Too Much Empty Space
Do you have more empty bedrooms than you know what to do with? Many families need a lot of space in the early days. But, as the kids get older and move out into places of their own, it can leave parents with lots of empty bedrooms.
Some people enjoy the extra storage space or use the bedrooms to create a home gym or office. But if you don’t have any use for your empty space, that may be because there’s too much of it.
3. Health and Mobility Reasons
When daily life becomes a strain because of your home, it’s not a good sign. Many people prepare for older age by moving into a home that’s smaller with no stairs. Others choose to make adaptations to their homes to stay living in them for longer.
Just because your health and mobility have changed, it’s not an automatic sign that it’s time to downsize. But if you’re struggling to get by, even with adaptations, making the move could make life easier.
4. Your Bills Are Unsustainable
Finances are a big reason why many people choose to downsize. When you retire, reduce your working hours or you just have one less person around to help pay the bills, your outgoings can easily start outweighing your incomings.
If this happens, downsizing could be the solution you need. By moving to a smaller property, you could create a sustainable living situation with more manageable bills.
5. Your Home Makes You Emotional
Our homes should be places that make us feel happy and comfortable. But if you feel lonely, sad, or even scared when living in your house, it may not be the best place for you to live.
Moving home can feel like a fresh start for many reasons. While downsizing may not always be the solution, moving somewhere smaller or that’s in a different community could feel safer and more like home.
Are You Thinking About Downsizing?
Downsizing is a big decision that you shouldn’t feel pressured into making. The most important thing to do is to make sure it’s the right choice for you.
If you’re thinking about downsizing from your Bristol home, our friendly team at Northwood Bristol are happy to help talk through your options.
Give us a call today on 0117 9635777 or send us an email on bristol@northwooduk.com for an informal chat.
