With the economy slowly mending, more people are interested in purchasing new homes. However, many homebuyers miss potential dream homes because they’re convinced bigger is better. A larger home used to connote wealth and freedom, particularly for young singles who didn’t like the idea of staying with Mom and Dad after college or moving into a studio apartment. However, a smaller home has a plethora of advantages, particularly for singles and the elderly. Today, we’d like to enumerate some of the benefits of a smaller home.

Less Stuff, Less Stress

The majority of people shy away from smaller homes because they don’t like the idea of storing or selling possessions. Yet fewer possessions often means less stress. Purchasing a home and all that entails is quite stressful, particularly for young singles who’ve never lived on their own before. Downsizing can actually decrease these worries; it allows you to focus on the items that are most important to you, as well as what kind of home will best support your treasures. If you want an apartment or condo that allows pets, you’ll probably be less concerned about whether all your appliances will fit in the kitchen. If you treasure your photographs, you’ll be more concerned with the wall space than whether you’ll be able to use your large comforter.

A Closer Community

People who live in large homes may go months or years without getting to know their neighbors. Yet in an apartment or condo, the neighbors are always within easy reach. Some homeowners brush this off as a negative, fearing the “nosy neighbor” stereotype. However, this is often an advantage. There’s generally someone close by in case of an emergency or in case you need a pet-sitter. The neighbors’ proximity also means you’ll have more opportunities to socialize in and out of your home.

Help With Upkeep

Owning a home often sounds like a grand adventure or proof of adulthood, and for some, it is. However, the upkeep of a traditional home quickly becomes overwhelming. With a condo or apartment, maintenance and upkeep issues are handled on-site for everyone. Thus, you can enjoy your home without worrying about who’s going to mow the lawn, spray for bugs, or change the light bulbs. Help is always one phone call or email away.