For example, hybrid working has become a new way of life and, according to a Google community mobility report, people are spending more time working from home than in the office, requiring different needs in your home set up.
There are also signs that people are returning to the city, with a surge of customers looking to take advantage of the buzz of urban areas once again, even if it means moving to a smaller space.
Our established developments in urban and city centre locations, like Edinburgh, Glasgow, Winchester and Chichester, have been attracting high numbers of househunters since January. The level of interest we’re seeing in these sites is more in line with what we’d expect for newly launched developments.
So, as people consider moving house and set their sights on what their new idea of an ideal home is, choosing the correct size and layout of a property is just as important as selecting the best location. That’s why it’s important to understand the difference between downsizing and rightsizing.
What is rightsizing?
A rightsizing home is exactly as it sounds – a property that is the best fit and the right size for your needs, whether bigger or smaller. It’s also about utilising your new space to the fullest – decluttering and using rooms in a smarter, more considered way.
Rightsizing can also be about moving house to match the goals in your life. Perhaps you favour a more efficient, new build home for sustainability reasons, or a coastal home where you can use the beach as your back garden. You might need more room for your family to grow, and having dual-purpose rooms can be important in a rightsizing home too, for example a room that can double as an office and a workout space.
View from Florence Wynd, Ayr
For some, they might be rightsizing to a property that’s closer to the amenities and the entertainment they enjoy, or closer to friends and family members. Most importantly, it means making a move that’s right for every individual, no matter the size of the property.
What are the key differences between rightsizing and downsizing?
While rightsizing is all about finding the space and layout that works best for you – whether bigger or smaller – downsizing is the process of moving to a smaller home. This is often a choice made by those who no longer require the extra rooms they once needed for their now grown-up children, or to make their lives a bit simpler.
As well as helping to save money on a mortgage, it could also mean reduced utility bills and less time doing housework (win win!). Often homeowners who have successfully downsized feel happier and less overwhelmed by the demands of a larger home, which can free up time for other activities.
How to choose the right house for your needs
The first step is to consider what you really want and need from your home – how big is your family, do you often have guests, do you like to entertain, do you need a garden, do you require flexible spaces for home working, is a particular location at the top of your list? From there you can examine the different types of houses and see which are the best fit.
How many rooms do you want in your home?
It might sound obvious but the first step in deciding whether to downsize or rightsize is to consider how many rooms you’d like to have at home. Having bedrooms available for grown-up children or the grandkids might be something you still desire, or even just having an extra bedroom for storage could be an option.
Another key thing to consider is whether you, like many, require another bedroom for working from home. A home office has been key for those who maintain a hybrid way of working post-pandemic, or simply a place for you to go inside and write, paint, or even work out.
However, if you don’t need extra rooms, having too many in the house might feel wasteful, not to mention an unnecessary extra room to clean. Cala homes come with plenty of storage space, which is crucial for rightsizing and downsizing to really maximise your space and optimise the use of your rooms.
Are you looking to save money?
A new build home can be a great option if you are downsizing or rightsizing, owing to their flexibility and design features. Many of the benefits of buying a new-build home, such as energy efficiency, less maintenance and being part of a new community, are also attractive elements.
New builds often have open plan kitchens, dining and living areas which can be perfect in a rightsize home, allowing real adaptability depending on how you like to use your space, whether for family time, entertaining or relaxed working.
What style of home would benefit you?
From bungalows to townhouses, to apartments and terraces homes, when it comes to choosing a property style, Cala has something for everyone. For some who decide to rightsize, they might consider moving to a bungalow, especially if they’re beginning to find going up and downstairs difficult.
If you have children for example, a townhouse could be a good option for those who want older kids to have their own space on the top floor. Our townhouses offer extra space and flexibility. Moreover, there are an array of townhouse benefits if you’re considering adapting to three-story living.
Apartments are usually ideally located for those who enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city. This makes them perfect for those who want to live in or close to a city centre, as well as being near theatres, bars and restaurants and other services.
What amenities do you want near your home?
As previously mentioned, a key benefit of rightsizing is being able to choose a home that perfectly fits your lifestyle. Are you contemporary or coastal? Do you like the quiet countryside or the buzz or the urban city?
Perhaps living near green space is a non-negotiable, or if you don’t drive, it might be worth considering rightsizing to a home that’s close to transport.
There is also rising demand from house-hunters looking to find a home that not only ticks all the boxes inside the property, but is surrounded by features such as a garden, woodland walks, tranquil lakes and easy access to the countryside. According to the 2021 Homebuyer Wishlist report, released by Market Financial Solutions (MFS), a whopping 92% of those looking to buy a home consider access to a garden or outside space to be the most essential factor.*
At Cala we have a very broad spectrum of homes, from city centre apartments to spacious family properties in more rural locations, catering all needs, no matter what our customers are seeking.
Visit our homes for sale page to find your dream Cala home today.
For guidance on buying your dream Cala home that’s the right size for you, read our step by step guide to buying a house.
