The benefits of downsizing to a smaller home

Downsizing to a smaller home can be a major life decision, but it can also come with a variety of benefits. As people get older, they may start to consider downsizing in order to reduce costs, simplify their lives, and increase their mobility. Here are just a few of the benefits of downsizing to a smaller home:


Lower costs

One of the biggest benefits of downsizing is the potential for lower costs. A smaller home typically means lower monthly mortgage payments, lower property taxes, and lower utility bills. This can be a major financial advantage, especially for those on a fixed income. In addition to the ongoing costs of homeownership, downsizing can also help to reduce the upfront costs of moving. With a smaller home, there is typically less stuff to pack and move, which can save money on things like movers and storage.


Reduced maintenance

Along with lower costs, a smaller home means less space to maintain. This can be a major advantage for those who are unable or unwilling to take on the upkeep of a larger home. A smaller home means less time and money spent on things like yard work, cleaning, and repairs. This can be especially beneficial for those who are looking to downsize in order to simplify their lives and reduce their workload.


Increased mobility: A smaller home can also provide increased mobility. With less stuff to pack and fewer rooms to worry about, it can be easier to move to a new location. This can be especially beneficial for those who are looking to downsize in order to be closer to family or to take advantage of new job opportunities. In addition, a smaller home can be more practical for those who are planning to travel frequently or who are considering retiring to a different part of the country.


Simplified living

Downsizing can also be a great way to simplify your life. With less space to fill, you may find that you are able to declutter and get rid of possessions that are no longer necessary. This can lead to a sense of freedom and a more organized, peaceful living environment. In addition to decluttering, downsizing can also make it easier to simplify other aspects of your life, such as your daily routine, your social calendar, and your home office.


Increased sense of community

Living in a smaller home can be an opportunity to get to know your neighbors and your community more. By living in a smaller house in a neighborhood with a strong sense of community, you may find that you have more opportunities to participate in local events, volunteer, or get involved in community projects. You may also find that you have more time to pursue hobbies and interests that you are passionate about.


Environmental benefits

Finally, downsizing to a smaller home can also have environmental benefits. A smaller home means less energy and resources are used to heat, cool, and maintain it, which can be good for the planet. Additionally, smaller homes tend to have smaller ecological footprint and are more energy efficient.



While downsizing to a smaller home can be a difficult decision to make, the benefits can be well worth it in the long run. It can be a great way to reduce costs, simplify your life, increase your mobility, and make the most of your golden years. If you are considering downsizing, it is important to consider all of the options available to you, including renting, buying a smaller home, or even downsizing to a retirement community. It is important to talk to a real estate agent, a financial advisor, and a lawyer to ensure that you make the best decision for your needs.

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How Often Do Closings Fall Through?

By Suzzy Wilder-Poe • February 22, 2023
How often do closings fall through? Closing on a new home is an exciting time, but it can also be stressful, especially if there is a possibility that the closing might fall through. Unfortunately, there are many reasons why a closing might not go as planned, and it can be difficult to predict when and why it might happen. A common reason for a closing to fall through is because of a problem with the property This can include issues with the title, zoning, or a lack of necessary permits. Even something as simple as a lack of proper documentation can lead to a closing falling through. This is why, before buying a property, it’s important to have a thorough home inspection and title search done, to ensure that there are no major issues that can cause delays or complications during the closing process. Another reason for a closing to fall through is because of a problem with the financing This can happen when the buyers are not able to obtain the necessary financing to purchase the property. This can be due to a lack of credit, a change in interest rates, or a problem with the buyer’s income or employment status. It is important to work with a lender early in the process to ensure that you are aware of any potential issues that could arise during the closing process. Another common reason why closings fall through is because of a change in the buyer’s circumstances This can happen when the buyer’s employment changes, they get a better job offer, they change their mind about the property, or they experience a change in their personal circumstances, such as a divorce or the birth of a child. Another reason for a fall through is when the parties are unable to agree to terms on the purchase contract This can happen when the seller and the buyer disagree on certain terms or conditions of the sale, such as the closing date, the purchase price, or the contingencies included in the contract. It’s important to have a good real estate agent who can help facilitate a smooth negotiation process that can prevent this kind of scenario. The good news is that, despite these potential obstacles, the majority of closings do not fall through. On average, most experts estimate that about 5-10% of closings fall through due to various factors However, these numbers can vary depending on the market conditions, the region, and the specific circumstances of the sale. To prevent a closing from falling through, it is essential to work with a qualified and experienced real estate agent, lender, and attorney, who can help you navigate the process and identify any potential issues that may arise. It is also important to be transparent and communicate clearly with all parties involved in the transaction, including the seller and the lender. By doing so, you can increase the chances of a smooth closing process.  In conclusion, while closings can fall through due to a variety of reasons, it is not as common as people might think. However, it is essential to be prepared for any potential obstacles and work with the right professionals to ensure that the closing process goes as smoothly as possible. Good communication and transparency can also help prevent closing falling through. By following these guidelines, you can feel more confident and secure in your home buying process, and increase the chances of a successful closing.
Spring into Action to Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal

Spring into Action to Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal

By Suzzy Wilder-Poe • February 20, 2023
Spring into Action to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal To sell your home this spring, it may need more preparation than it would have a year or two ago. Today’s housing market has a different feel. There are more homes for sale than there were at this time last year, but inventory is still historically low. So, if a house has been sitting on the market for a while, that’s a sign it may not be hitting the mark for potential buyers. But here’s the thing. Right now, homes that are updated and priced at market value are still selling fast. Today, homes with curb appeal that are presented well are still selling quickly, and sometimes over asking price. According to Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com: “In a market where costs are still high and buyers can be a little choosier, it makes sense they’re going to really zero in on the homes that are the most appealing.”