Physically, financially or emotionally, it’s perfectly normal to outgrow a home! If you’re feeling the squeeze, though, it can be difficult to know if you should just wait it out or move on. Here are nine ways to know if your place still “fits.”
Your family has grown
Perhaps you’ve had children, moved an elderly relative in or even adopted a furry friend! If your home hasn’t expanded along with your family, you may be experiencing some growing pains. If housing each child in their own bedroom or having a basement apartment for grandpa is important, relocating somewhere a little more spacious may work well for you.
There’s not enough storage space
Over the years, most homeowners find themselves accumulating more and more “stuff”. If you’re paying exorbitant fees for a storage unit, using the whole garage instead, or simply tripping over all your belongings, it might be time to start shopping around.
Your situation has changed
Your life might look a lot different than when you first moved in. Maybe you’ve gone through a career change, divorce or significant financial shift. Some changes are certainly big enough to warrant a move.
You haven’t gotten around to the personalization
One indicator of not-so-perfect fit is living in a home for years and not completing any of the passion projects you imagined at closing. Consider shopping around for something that makes you feel completely inspired.
You don’t love your space anymore
Speaking of inspiration, if you can’t find a few good things you still truly love about your home, it’s likely not the one for you. Everyone deserves to come home to a space that makes them feel at home!
Your lifestyle has changed
Maybe you chose a home in a nightlife-heavy neighborhood but don’t go out much anymore. Or perhaps your job is conveniently close to those busting downtown developments. If your situation has changed significantly, consider transitioning to something that better aligns with your needs and wants.
You’re ready for a return on investment
Perhaps you’ve been paying down your home loan for years and/or the market value of your place has significantly appreciated since you moved in. If you’re more excited to cash in on some home equity than keep the place, now may be the time to move on.
You’re never home
If you spend most of your time in the next city, prefer nearby neighborhoods, or just don’t have much use for the space you’re in right now, you’d likely be happier elsewhere. It’s more important than ever to have a space you truly feel happy and comfortable in.
You’re shopping around
If you’re not officially house hunting but still find yourself browsing through listings, take it as a sign. You deserve a home that checks all the boxes!
No matter what you choose, outgrowing a home is truly bittersweet. Each space holds its own share of special memories, but with each end comes a new beginning. That “just right” home is out there!
Published on July 6, 2020
