At Ulrich Real Estate Group, we work with buyers across the west metro all with unique needs and relationships to the real estate journey. However, one question that our buyers all wrestle with at some point in the process is: What size home is the right size for us? We’re well accustomed to walking our clients through this big question, and have a few notes that make the decision a little easier, in our experience.
What’s your current living situation?
Before you look outward, look inward. What size home are you living in now? What do you like about it? What are you hoping to switch up with a move? Lack of storage, insufficient bedrooms, or inadequate outdoor space are common living situation issues that can inform your next purchase.
The truth is, if you’re going from a large home to a small condo, it’s probably going to feel small. Once you become accustomed to a more sprawling set up, it can be a difficult adjustment to move to a place with significantly less square feet.
Whether you’re interested in moving to a home where you’re less cramped, or you’re thinking of moving somewhere where you better utilize all of your space, we like to think of the process as “right-sizing”. At the end of the day, it’s not about the square-footage, it’s about what’s most comfortable for your family and your lifestyle.
Taking an honest look at what’s working and what’s not in your current home is a key first step in deciding what your next home should be.
What will your life look like in the near future?
What are you planning, loosely, of course, for the next five to ten years? Oftentimes, changing your living environment corresponds with a new chapter. What are you thinking this next chapter might hold for you? Your life stage and future plans should have an influence on the type and size of home you should consider.
As real estate agents, there are three big life stages we think in terms of: First home, forever home, and final home.
When shopping for your first home, many people think smaller is best. “Starter home” they call it. We have to agree; jumping straight into home ownership with a huge yard and the maintenance of a mansion is a lot to take on! Many people also consider condos in this life stage, you’ll own it, and it will come with amenities.
A forever home is the home you’re hoping to build your life in for the longer term. If you’re planning to start or expand your family, you’ll probably need ample bedrooms and a little extra space for your family to grow. Exciting! We also suggest taking into account things like proximity to schools, parks, and family-friendly activities.
And if this move is going to be into your final home, it’s important to consider how the property will work for you as you age. More compact, single-story homes or those with minimal stairs can be more comfortable and safer in the long run.
What kind of lifestyle do you enjoy?
Finally, consider your lifestyle! Your home should be a place that supports how you’d like to live. If you like to spend time in the garden, you need a spot with a nice yard. Maybe you enjoy hosting family from out of town, you’ll need extra bedrooms for that. Perhaps, you’re a jet-setter, often traveling and in need of a low-maintenance space so you can lock the door and leave without a second thought. What are your interests or values and how do they factor into your list of new home must-haves?
Ulrich Real Estate’s Final Advice
Determining which is the right home for you is a personal decision that all buyers must eventually make. The best advice we can give you is to consider your current living situation, life stage, and lifestyle as you weigh your options. Whether you’re envisioning a condo, a townhome, a small house, or a large one, by considering these factors, you can make a choice that provides comfort, happiness, and a suitable living environment for years to come.
This area and our experts have options for you! If you’re ready to begin your real estate journey in the west metro, connect with us at Ulrich Real Estate Group today.
*Header photo courtesy of Ulrich Real Estate Group
