In 2023, we had worked with a number of clients through the interest rate rises and were frequently asked whether downsizing a home is an option, and the short answer is always, ‘it depends’. It depends on whether you’re foregoing your lifestyle or whether it makes financial sense for you to do so especially since a primary place of residents (i.e. the family home) in investment strategy is typically a foundational asset used to leverage for other property purchases. Either way you look at it, downsizing your home can be a big and tough decision, but it’s becoming increasingly popular as more people look to simplify their lives and/or save money. While there are many advantages to downsizing, it’s not without its drawbacks. In less than 600 words, we wanted to share the 5 pros and 5 cons of downsizing your home to help you make an informed decision.
Pros:
1. Lower Expenses: Downsizing can reduce your monthly expenses, such as mortgage payments, property taxes, and utility bills. With a smaller home, you’ll also need to spend less on maintenance and repairs.
2. More Savings: By selling your larger home and downsizing, you’ll free up equity that can be used to pay off debts, invest in stocks, or start a new business.
3. Less Clutter: A smaller home means less space to fill with clutter, which can help you maintain a more organized and stress-free environment.
4. Energy Efficiency: A smaller home requires less energy to heat, cool, and power, making it an environmentally-friendly option that can help reduce your carbon footprint.
5. Improved Quality of Life: Downsizing can provide you with more time and resources to focus on the things that matter most in life, such as spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, traveling or living in an area that adds to your lifestyle.
Cons:
1. Less Space: One of the biggest and obvious drawbacks of downsizing is the loss of space. You may have to get rid of furniture, belongings, and other items that won’t fit in your new home.
2. Emotional Attachment: Moving out of a home that you’ve lived in for a long time can be an emotional experience. Downsizing may require letting go of sentimental items or memories that are attached to your current home.
3. Fewer Options: Depending on where you live, you may have fewer options for smaller homes or downsizing communities. This can limit your choices and make it more challenging to find a suitable new home.
4. Adjustment Period: Moving to a smaller home can take some time to adjust to. You may need to get used to a new layout, neighborhood, and lifestyle.
5. Lower capital growth: When downsizing your property, you’re also downsizing your capital growth appreciation especially if you’re going from a home to a unit or apartment. This is because most of the appreciation of the property is in the land size and location.
In summary, downsizing your home can offer numerous financial and lifestyle benefits however, it’s not without its challenges, including less space, emotional attachment and reduced capital growth on your property. Ultimately, the decision to downsize should be based on your personal needs, lifestyle, and financial situation. If you’re considering downsizing, take the time to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consult with a financial advisor, your family accountant or buyer’s agent to help you make an informed decision.