When it comes to homes, people often think bigger is better. Many individuals dream of owning an enormous mansion with several wings, a swimming pool, and a driveway large enough to park an entire fleet of cars.
But there are many reasons to consider downsizing, rather than expanding. A smaller home can benefit your life in more ways than you can imagine, from increased wealth to improved relationships and mental health.
Perhaps you are thinking about moving house, you’ve just retired, or your grown up children are leaving home. If so, this would be the perfect time to find a small cottage in the countryside and start a new life.
If you’re still unconvinced about the benefits of moving to a smaller home, here are a few reasons that might change your mind.
Less expensive
A smaller home will greatly reduce your cost of living. Not only will the price of the property itself be a lot less than a larger house, you will also notice a significant reduction in your monthly energy bills. With less square footage, it takes a lot less power to keep it warm and lit, and you’ll have a lot more disposable income to play around with each month. Use this extra money to save for your retirement, go on holiday, or simply keep it aside for a rainy day.
More free time
How much time do you currently spend on household chores? It takes so long to hoover the carpets, deep clean the bathroom, wipe down surfaces and dust shelves, that by the time you’re done it’s not long until you need to start cleaning again. But with a smaller home, you’ll have a lot less space to clean. You’ll complete your errands in a fraction of the time and can fill these extra hours in the day with whatever fun activities you choose.
Improved relationships
When you live in a large house, it’s harder to establish a strong familial bond. It’s easy for your children to shut themself in their rooms or partners to spend their evenings in separate parts of the house. But a smaller space encourages conversation and will help to bring your family together. You’ll share a stronger bond and will learn to communicate more openly and honestly with each other.
A simpler life
Modern life is complicated and stressful. People are all so wrapped up in their possessions and smart devices that it’s understandable you might wish you could go back to a simpler time. But with a small home, you can. Downsizing your property will no doubt require you to get rid of some of your possessions in order to make room. This might be selling them, discarding them, or even putting them in mobile storage. Freeing yourself of your material belongings will help you to make the most of your life and prioritize memories and experiences rather than things. You will be happier in your new life and your mental health and fulfillment will skyrocket as a result.
