Downsizing your home

It’s not the size of your home that matters, but the feeling of serenity and security it gives you. The secret to downsizing is choosing the perfect space and place for the lifestyle you want to enjoy.

Are there downsides to downsizing?

There can be downsides to downsizing, and it’s natural to have some concerns when you’re making a big life decision.

The most obvious is that you’ll have less living and storage space, which means shedding some belongings.

Buying and moving house also incurs costs, for example, Stamp Duty, survey fees and removal charges.

Then there’s the emotional upheaval to think about. It’s not always easy to leave a house you’ve lived in for a long time. You may also have to move away from an area you know well, leaving friends, community groups and favourite places behind.

It’s important to balance the negatives with the positives when deciding whether to downsize. If the pros still outweigh the cons, it’s time to start thinking about what kind of property will be right for you.

The benefits of downsizing into a new build

If the big attraction of downsizing is to live in a more manageable home with lower bills, a new build makes perfect sense. You’ll enjoy:

• Brand new fixtures and appliances
• Low maintenance
• Warranties on the building itself and all technology inside
• Energy efficiency – modern central heating system, insulated loft and draught-free, double glazed windows mean warmer rooms and lower utility bills
• Fewer chains – with a new build there isn’t anyone further up the chain, which can reduce stress around completion and moving release day
• Schemes such as Home Change and Part Exchange to help reduce the costs and hassle of selling your current home

Find out more about the benefits of buying new with Charles Church.

How do I downsize? 

If you're asking yourself, 'how do I downsize?' you're not alone. Many people reach a point where their current home no longer fits their lifestyle – whether that's due to empty bedrooms, high running costs or the desire for a fresh start in a more manageable space.

Downsizing house is about more than just moving into something smaller – it's about creating a life with more ease, comfort and freedom. With a clear plan and the right support, the move can feel less daunting and far more rewarding.

Here are some of the key steps to consider:

Getting ready to declutter

Downsizing household belongings is often the first step. Moving to a smaller home will almost definitely mean decluttering and getting rid of some belongings.

The scale of that task will depend on how much ‘clutter’ you already have, what size of house you’re downsizing to and how sentimental you are about your possessions.

The trick is to allow time – well ahead of your move – to consider what you really need, as well as the items that will bring you the most joy.

Read our top decluttering tips.

Buying schemes for downsizers

We know that moving to a smaller home isn’t about giving up space – it’s about gaining more freedom, flexibility and the time to enjoy the things that matter most to you.

If you think it’s time to downsize but selling your current home feels daunting, our Home Change and Part Exchange schemes can take the pressure off, helping you move smoothly into a home that’s the perfect fit.

Explore our buying schemes