Does Size Matter???
When the intent is to “trade up” to a better house, most people equate “better” with “larger.” Today’s economic situation tells us that while it’s a great time to BUY a house, it’s not such a great time to SELL one. So whether or not that “trade up” statement is true for you, the reality is that you are probably going to “stay put” for a while.
If you like your neighborhood, your neighbors, and the school system your kids are in, this could be a blessing in disguise. Oftentimes, a larger home means nothing more than larger utility bills and more empty rooms.
There are loads of improvements that can be made to a house that will make it so comfortable, functional and enjoyable to live in that you no longer WANT to move! Kitchens can be updated; rooms can be refurnished, rearranged OR repurposed; walls can be painted or otherwise recovered. Floors can be replaced–trade that dirt-collecting carpet for something easier to keep clean. Custom window treatments can be added or replaced for beauty, privacy, light control or any combination of reasons.
If you feel compelled to find a larger home because you ran out of room for all the “stuff” you’re hanging on to, perhaps it’s time to work with a professional organizer. It’s amazing what a sense of calm and relief it can be to get rid of all the clutter. What a wonderful way to expand your living space without moving to a new house or adding a room to the old one!
The best clients I have ever had the pleasure to work with live in an 1800 square foot house. That’s pretty small by today’s standards, but it’s absolutely gorgeous, if I do say so myself! An example of a modification to standard design is that their Kitchen is the only eating area in the house, so we put the breakfront in the adjacent Living Room. It looks just fine there.
I did wonders with their small space. Imagine what fabulous things I can do in yours!