When Less Space is More

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The Top 6 Benefits of Downsizing into a Condominium

By Cameron McNeill, owner of MAC Marketing Solutions

Have you noticed the trend for downsizing the way we live? Homeowners of all generations are realizing that “living large” doesn’t always mean living better. The decision to downsize if often sparked by job relocation, the kids heading off to university, or the changing needs of entering your golden years. Regardless of the motivation, there are numerous benefits to downsizing into a smaller condominium home. If you love saving money, energy, resources, and time — keep reading for our top six benefits of living a more “cozy” life! Storage solutions are some of the many elements that sophisticated developers are incorporating to allow you to have more usable space for less dollars. First time homebuyers, downsizers, and investors alike are now also putting on their creative hats to find ways to get more out of every square foot. Here are some insights on what to look for in a floorplan layout and how to choose the right type of furnishings to get more space out of your new home.

1. A clutter-free lifestyle

Let’s face it, the more space you have, the more space you will fill with furniture, knick-knacks — and clutter! Downsizing is a great opportunity to review your lifestyle and prioritize your needs. Then, you can choose to bring only what is essential and most valuable to you into your new home.

2. Smaller living means less stress

Many homeowners agree that living in a larger home can lead to greater stress and upkeep. Taking into account cleaning, home repair, furnishing, taxes, gardening and the cost to run all of these can lead to financial and emotional stress. Downsizing can reduce the burden of daily chores and free up more time and money for leisure activities and your friends and family.

3. Saving energy is the future

One of the main disadvantages of owning a large home is the ever increasing energy costs. Smaller homes, especially those with energy efficient appliances and windows, give you the added benefit of reducing your carbon footprint whilst being budget friendly

4. Downsizing can mean upsizing your travel

You may not have considered this before, but leaving your house for an extended period of time can be costly and stressful. Maintenance, security and grounds upkeep can often become a burden. Downsizing can provide a lock-and-go solution to those who want to travel the world knowing their worldly belongings are safe and sound in their home.

5. Small living in big cities

Some homeowners are concerned about moving away from their neighbourhood and losing their social ties. However, with today’s amenity-rich neighbourhoods, apartment living has never been more social or convenient. Leave the suburbs behind and walk to the grocer, the local pub, the dentist and the gym and gain the added health benefits of an active life.

6. Reduce debt and still live large

While this won’t be true for every homeowner, right sizing into a smaller lifestyle can help tackle debt or an overstretched budget. A smaller home often means a more manageable budget and better prospects for a happy and healthy retirement. Downsizing doesn’t have to mean downgrading. As many have already discovered, it can mean living a better, bigger life — free of the worries that can come with owning a single family home.
Source: New Condo Guide October 17th – 31st issue (Volume 04 issue 21); MAC Marketing Blog