Outgrowing your starter home is common. Your current home has served your needs for many years but now it’s no longer the right fit anymore and no amount of organization will make it work. If that’s the case, it’s probably time to find a larger home. Here’s everything you need to consider when deciding if now is the right time to upsize your home.
Consider your goals
Your home needs to meet a specific purpose that your current home isn’t fulfilling; you’re not moving “just because.” Think critically about why you need more space. Do you need more bedrooms because you’ve had more kids or moved your parents or another relative in? Do you now work from home and need a dedicated office space? Do you have pets and need outdoor space? Whatever your reasons, create a list to help you prioritize when you begin looking at homes so you can stay focused on what you need and find a home that works with it.
Buy only the space you need
The thought of having more space is exciting, especially if your family is feeling cramped in your current home. But upsizing doesn’t mean just getting a home that’s double in size. Sometimes a home with a similar square footage but an open layout can feel much larger and provide the space you need. Assess how your current home is laid out and how it could be more efficient. Sometimes an extra bedroom or an open floor plan is all you need!
It’s also important to consider how you’ll use the extra space. When you’re touring homes, think about whether or not you’ll actually use the rooms or features you see, especially if they’re specialty rooms. It’s tempting to spring for the home with a home theater but it’s just wasted space if your family rarely uses it.
Do the math
Larger homes usually come with an increased cost of living. A larger home not only means a larger mortgage payment but also means higher property taxes and insurance premiums. It also means more maintenance costs and increased utility bills as well. Review your finances to make sure you can afford the full cost of a larger home.
Don’t just consider the monetary cost! Also consider the time it will take to maintain your home, from cleaning to yard work.
Take your time
You don’t have to fully furnish your home from the start. Extra space doesn’t mean you need to fill it with extra items. Instead of rushing to buy new furniture, allow yourself time to get a feel for the new space and figure out how your family uses it. Once you have a better understanding of how you live in your new home, then begin to get additional furniture. You may find you don’t need a lot of new stuff!
Moving into a bigger home is an exciting process but should be carefully considered. That way you can buy the right size home for your family without regrets.
When you’re ready to move into a new and bigger home, we’re ready to help. Visit us at DiscoveryHomes.com to learn about our new home communities throughout Northern California, view floorplans, pricing, and schedule a visit! We look forward to helping you find your home.