Have you decided to make a move and downsize to a smaller home? You’re not alone. The latest data from the National Association of Realtors indicates that about one-quarter of all homebuyers age 57 and older are primarily motivated by a transition to retirement and/or the desire to own a smaller home. And it’s not just seniors who are looking to streamline their housing — some younger people choose to move to something less expensive so they can use their cash for other things.
Even if you are ready to downsize, this lifestyle change can still be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you find a smaller home that is perfectly suited to this stage of your life.
What to Keep in Mind
Downsizing doesn’t have to involve downgrading. Actually, it can be the opposite! By shopping for a smaller home with a custom builder, you can afford better quality and more investment in features that matter to you, such as a gourmet kitchen for entertaining family, a hobby room where you can indulge in your favorite pastime or acreage in the country. Less square footage can also mean less maintenance and lower utility bills, giving you more wiggle room in your budget.
Consider the Community as a Whole
The community where your home is located is just as important as the home itself. From grocery stores and restaurants to medical facilities and recreational opportunities, place a heavy emphasis on the amenities offered by the surrounding community. Cheyenne has been recognized as one of the nation’s best cities to retire by WalletHub and AARP The Magazine, largely thanks to Wyoming’s low tax rates. It also offers a friendly small-town feel, accessible health care and numerous attractions including a symphony orchestra, a community college and a trail system.
Opt for the Best You Can Afford
You may have worked your entire life for retirement — now is the chance to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Make sure that the home you choose still fits your basic needs and includes some extras that will add enjoyment to daily living — upgraded cabinets and countertops, for example. Otherwise, you may suffer from a sense of claustrophobia in a too-small space and be unhappy with your new environment. As the area’s largest custom builder, Gateway offers a selection of customizable floor plans that can be tweaked to meet your needs or the opportunity to build a completely custom home from scratch.
Prioritize Maintenance
You may currently have an older home that requires a lot of upkeep, creating unwanted stress and expense. With a new Gateway home, you can enjoy all-new finishes and energy-efficient features such as a Nest Learning Thermostat, a high-efficiency water heater and ENERGY STAR®-rated appliances. For your peace of mind, it will be backed by a one-year material and workmanship warranty, plus a 10-year structural warranty. A new build will require less maintenance, and increased energy savings means more money to spend on what’s important to you.
Take Your Time Decluttering
Downsizing your belongings to move to a smaller space can feel overwhelming, so give yourself plenty of time to work through the process. Three months to sort through your stuff before a move is a good rule of thumb, according to organization experts. Create a schedule of when you will work on decluttering so you don’t put it off. Choose one room at a time to focus on, then work from top to bottom, left to right.
Downsizing Doesn’t Have to Be Forever
Some people consider downsizing to be their final move, but whether you are empty nesters or just looking to save on expenses, a smaller home doesn’t have to be the home you live in for the rest of your life. If you move to a smaller home that just doesn’t end up working for you, you will still have options. And if you are downsizing to save money, you can always upsize again if your financial situation improves.
Work With a Custom Builder to Design Your Dream Home
Remember, when you’re downsizing, you really can have it all, with less square footage and without sacrificing your quality of life. Gateway Construction, LLC is here to make your next home your dream home! Since 2001, we have been committed to integrating strong core values with proven building practices, unwavering integrity, complete communication, value and client satisfaction. Our homes offer thoughtful design and quality finishes that last for years without worry. Explore the benefits of working with a custom builder by calling our team at (307) 632-8950 or contacting us online. Let’s start building your future today!
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