There comes a point in every homeowner’s journey where your space no longer feels quite right. Maybe the rooms are too quiet now the kids have flown the nest. Or perhaps things are starting to feel a little too tight as your family grows.
Whether you’re considering a move for financial reasons, lifestyle changes, or just a fresh start, it’s worth asking: should you downsize, upsize, or rightsize your home?
Let’s explore what each option means and how to decide which move suits you best.
What does it mean to downsize, upsize, and rightsize?
These terms get thrown around a lot, so here’s a quick refresher:
- Downsizing a home means moving into a smaller property. This can help save money, reduce maintenance, and free up time or equity.
- Upsizing a home means moving somewhere bigger – usually to meet the needs of a growing household or changing lifestyle.
- Rightsizing sits somewhere in the middle. It’s not about going bigger or smaller but choosing a home that fits your current situation and future plans.
If you’re wondering, what is rightsizing, think of it as finding that sweet spot – the property that’s “just right” for where you are in life.
Related: 9 Common mistakes to avoid when selling your home
Signs it’s time to downsize
When to downsize your home isn’t always obvious, but there are a few key signs:
- You’re no longer using all your rooms
- The cost of running your home feels high for the space you use
- Gardening, cleaning or upkeep is taking up too much energy
- You’re thinking about retirement or planning to travel more
- Your children have moved out and the house feels too big
For many, empty nest downsizing offers a fresh chapter. The benefits of downsizing go beyond finances as it can simplify daily life, lower stress, and help focus on the things that matter most.
Related: When is the right time to downsize?
When should you upsize your home?
Upsizing your home might be the right move if life is starting to feel a little cramped:
- Your family is growing, and bedrooms are in short supply
- You’re working from home and need a dedicated office space
- You’ve run out of storage or living space
- You’re thinking long-term and want to settle in your “forever home”
- You want more outdoor space, especially if you have children or pets
The decision whether to move to a bigger house depends on your goals, your finances, and whether your current home is starting to hold you back.
The concept of rightsizing: finding the perfect balance
While downsizing or upsizing might seem like opposite ends of the scale, rightsizing a home is more about balance.
It’s about choosing a space that supports how you live now and not just how much space you have. That could mean moving closer to family, getting a layout that suits your lifestyle, or having enough room for hobbies without the hassle of too much maintenance.
Rightsizing vs downsizing isn’t just about square footage. It’s about purpose. If you’re in a house that no longer works for your needs, even if it’s the right size – a thoughtful change can make all the difference.
Financial considerations: cost of moving and affordability
Before making any move, it’s important to look at the cost of moving house. Expenses can quickly add up – estate agent fees, removals, legal costs, stamp duty, and more.
Here are some practical financial checks to make:
- Can you afford the upfront moving costs?
- Will your monthly mortgage or rent change?
- Is your target area within budget and offering value?
- Are you likely to need to renovate or refurnish the new space?
- How will the move affect your long-term savings or equity?
Whether you’re looking to downsize your home to free up funds or upsize to support a growing family, affordability should always be at the heart of your decision.
Emotional and lifestyle factors to consider
A move isn’t just a financial or practical choice; it’s an emotional one too.
Leaving a long-term family home, even if it feels too big, can be tough. And while a larger home might seem appealing, it also brings extra responsibility. Choosing to right size gives you a chance to create a space that truly fits your needs and brings you comfort and joy.
Here are a few questions to help guide your thinking:
- Does your current home reflect your lifestyle today?
- Are you excited by the idea of more space or more simplicity?
- Is your home helping you live the life you want, or holding you back?
- Are you looking for a fresh start or simply a better fit?
Ultimately, the best decision is the one that feels right not just for your finances, but for your future.
Practical steps to help you decide
If you’re still torn between downsizing, upsizing, or rightsizing, here are a few simple steps:
- Walk through your current home and note what’s working (and what isn’t)
- Make a list of your must-haves, from space to location and layout
- Compare live property listings that match each of your options
- Set a realistic budget and stick to it
- Think about where you’ll be in five years – not just today
Taking a little time to plan and reflect can save a lot of uncertainty down the line.
Finding the move that fits
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to moving home. Whether you’re scaling back, stepping up, or aiming for something that simply suits your life better, the most important thing is that your next move supports your goals.
The right home should work for you, not the other way around. If you’re thinking about your next move and need a little expert guidance, speak to your local Martin & Co team – we’re here to help you find the home that fits just right.
