How to Find a Home that Fits Your Lifestyle

Thanks to the classic tale of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, you can use Goldilocks’ experience to consider your options when down-sizing. I prefer to call this move right-sizing.

1. Consider if the bed is too big.

While you may be used to a larger family home, is that the right size for you now and where you see yourself in the next 5-10 years?

Are the stairs manageable?
Will you be responsible for cleaning the whole house?
Are you able and happy to keep up with yard work (or would you rather be golfing or having coffee with friends?)
Are you happy paying the utility bills on a larger property or could you use that money for other things?
Are you far away from the services, activities and family you enjoy?

Perhaps, like Goldilocks discovered, that bed’s just too big to feel comfortable for where you are in your life now (or how you envision living during retirement). A large house may not be the right size for you right now.

When might a larger house be the right size? If you have adult children or grandchildren moving back home or aging parent(s) coming to stay with you for some time, then a larger house may be the right size.

2. Consider if the bed is too small.

While appearing cozy at first glance, Goldilocks soon discovered the small bed was just too tight a squeeze for her. Moving from a larger family home into a cozy condo may be too much of a downsize at this time in your life. Some questions to ask yourself:

How often do you entertain? You may need extra space for a dining room table for larger gatherings or card night.
How often does family come to stay? If the kids, parents or grandkids usually spend holidays or summer break with you, you might still want that guest room or extra area.
Do you have seasonal hobbies or activities that require gear to be stored? Maybe the golf cart, snow shoes, water items, woodworking tools… need some place larger than an underground parking space that comes with the condo.

It’s not uncommon for those over 50 to retire in stages, likewise, down-sizing in stages. Maybe moving from the family home to a smaller two-story, bungalow or attached home is a better next step. You can always choose the cozy condo down the road.

3. Find the bed that’s just right.

Sometimes, you won’t know what’s right until you’ve tried it. Goldilocks had the luxury of testing all three beds until she found the right size for her. Since a home is often your largest investment, that may not be practical. However, finding the right real estate agent to help you in your search will go a long way to selecting that right-sized home for you at this time in your life. Questions I like to ask my clients:

What does your life look like day-to-day? If you’re still working from home on a full or part-time basis, a space will be needed to support that. If activities and services are used often, perhaps moving closer to their location will provide ease of use and recover some transportation time. Walking distance to your favourite restaurant or a short drive to the golf course?
Who do you visit the most often or who visits you? This helps us decide location and space needed in your next home.
What do you love about your current home and what have you always wanted in a home that you don’t have now? I’ve had several beautiful homes yet I always dreamed of a lovely window seat to curl up in with a good book. (I may or may not find one, but I’ll add it to my list when looking).
How’s your health? We often don’t like to talk about this one, but creating spaces that are easier to live in gives you back energy to do more living! If stairs are wreaking havoc on your hips or knees, stop putting up with it: consider one-level living. If yard work is straining your back, choose a low-to-no maintenance apartment condo, bareland condo or townhome.
How’s your social life? If you’re feeling isolated or wanting more social activities, shared meals and services, perhaps a retirement community is a welcome next step for you. Morning yoga, breakfast served in the dining room and staff on hand to assist when needed provide all the conveniences of community living.

It is also important to consider your estate planning and financial needs. Are you moving to a smaller home so you can free up money for an investment property, vacation home, retirement or to help your kids or grandkids buy their first home?

Chances are, you’ve been thinking a lot about this next phase of your life. Consider what will make it easier, more supportive and more enjoyable for you. I’m here to help when you need me. Wishing you all the best!