Thinking of downsizing your home? Good for you! Smaller homes can save you money, allow for more flexibility in where you choose to live, improve your quality of life and – most importantly – reduce your environmental impact.
When we built our sustainable home, we decided to build it smaller than the home we previously owned – even though our family was growing. And while this is the opposite of what many people do when building, we absolutely love our smaller house because it’s just the right size for us and it reduces our carbon footprint.
But aside from the environmental factor, there are so many other ways downsizing can be a great choice. Whether you’re an empty-nester, or simply seeking a cozier living space, the process can be both exciting and challenging.
To help make this transition as smooth as possible, I recommend checking out the Ultimate Guide to Moving. The step-by-step guidance will ensure your downsizing journey is both successful and as stress-free as possible.
As for more info on the additional benefits of downsizing your home, keep reading!
Downsizing Your Home Saves Money
If you’re looking to save on monthly bills and general expenses, consider a smaller living situation. This point seems pretty obvious, but the savings that come from downsizing are significant. Simply downgrading from a four-bedroom to a two-bedroom home can save families hundreds – even thousands – of dollars a year.
Even closing costs come down significantly for smaller homes. And here’s the best part – you can sell your more valuable house, spend much less on a new abode, and pocket the profits for important hobbies. Furthermore, smaller rooms equal less energy consumption, helping cut down on utility costs. Not only do you save money, but you also help reduce your environmental impact.
Downsizing Your Home Makes it Easier To Clean
Ah, cleaning. It never ends. Anyone else dread spending hours every weekend deep-cleaning your house? And the bigger the house is, the more work it requires. Not to mention the costs and environmental impact that comes from buying countless cleaning supplies.
Even a minor downsize helps cut down on time and money spent maintaining your home, which leaves you with more moments of enjoyment and relaxation. I mean, do you really need a home with three bathrooms when two should be more than enough? Just think… one less toilet to clean.
Need help choosing eco-conscious furniture and decor for your home? That’s what I’m here for!
Downsizing Your Home Means Living Closer to City Centre
I may not live in a city, but I totally get the allure. Living in a vibrant city full of exciting activities, diverse people and unlimited possibilities sounds very enticing. Imagine being able to walk to work, school, restaurants – everywhere!
Most larger homes near city centres are extremely expensive, which is why smaller homes are the best option for a city environment. Empty nesters and families who are able to live happily with less can downsize and affordably and comfortably live downtown. Any profits from the sale of a larger house can go toward an apartment, brownstone, or condo in the right neighbourhood for you.
Downsizing Your Home Means a Better Quality of Life
With growing populations and housing costs, downsizing your home is becoming a more and more common thing to do. After downsizing, families and individuals often report an improved quality of life because they can spend less time worrying about money, as well as less time maintaining and cleaning their homes – and more time enjoying life.
Plus, the cozy atmosphere of a smaller home allows for better connections and fun with the family. I’ve heard owners of tiny homes remark that they successfully live with multiple kids – and multiple pets! And while my home isn’t “tiny,” I also can confirm that we have plenty of space for our two kids and two pets even though many in our area consider our house “too small.”
Understanding the many benefits of downsizing your home can allow you to live a smaller, more intentional life. Save money each month to focus on the things that make you and your family happy. Plus, downsizing helps decrease your impact on the environment. And who doesn’t like the sound of that?
PIN ME!
Posted on December 20, 2021
Need help choosing eco-conscious furniture and decor for your home? That’s what I’m here for!
Former architectural technologist. Current treehugger.
I’m here to help you green your home – and your life.
Subscribe to the Of Houses and Trees monthly newsletter and I’ll send you my FREE list of “The 8 Best Places to Buy Eco-Conscious Decor Online.”
What on earth is sustainable design? Learn all about this eco-focused design method and read the latest posts about green architecture, interior design and decor.
Sustainable living is more than just a thing treehuggers talk about. It’s about making conscious choices everyday. Read the latest posts on living with the planet’s wellbeing always in mind.
Visit the Of Houses and Trees sustainable product directory and support brands trying to make a difference in the world.
Find out more about our 40 acres of land in Parkland County, Alberta and the sustainable home we built amongst the trees.
Need help creating the home of your dreams? Care about the planet? You’ve come to the right place! check out my affordable, sustainable e-design services.
Having a had time choosing paint colours? I’ve got you – and your walls – covered with an interior paint palette sure to compliment your home.
Have questions about creating an eco-conscious home? Go ahead – ask me! Sign up for one of my free online interior design consultations and ask me anything you want.
