As we constantly monitor and follow trends in the real estate industry, an interesting movement is emerging. There has been increased consideration given to smaller homes nationwide for a number of reasons. Not to say that “bigger is better” is a thing of the past. But for many, consideration is being given to the simple concept that “smaller is preferred”. 

First, there are the Baby Boomers who are finding that their empty nest may be larger than what they now want or need in terms of space and upkeep. Many homeowners of this generation are in the position to move to new locations they have always wanted to try out or to just spend more time pursuing hobbies and leisure activities versus the upkeep of large lawns and seldom-used rooms. The minimized stress can be worth clearing out some closets and downsizing. Some challenges to note are the difficulty in parting with items that hold memories but are truly of little use any longer, as well as the feeling that there is not enough room in a smaller home when the extended family all gathers at once. 
 
Other homeowners who are following the idea to embrace smaller living quarters may be doing so because of the deep seeded need to condense their belongings and simplify their lives. While the initial move to a less spacious home may be difficult, once settled in the positives begin to arise. Economically speaking, the amount of unessential spending should decrease as there is basically no room for items that are only used once or twice a year. There can also be a benefit in the family dynamics as one of two things may happen. Either a family will learn to spend more quality time together as there are fewer places to “get away” in the house or there will be a greater desire to spend time outdoors away from television and computers.
 
On the extreme side is the phenomenon called the Small House Movement, with the norm being less than 1000 square feet of living area. This concept has achieved great reception with another strong cultural shift, the “green lifestyle”. It reinforces the idea of minimizing both a carbon and structural footprint. Again, this may be quite a stretch of the imagination for some but appeals to people because the smaller structures cost less to purchase/build, maintain, and heat/cool.
 
A more mainstream view of smaller homes can be observed through the work of architect Sarah Susanka and her series of “The Not So Big House” books which cover designing and building new homes as well as remodeling existing homes to function better. Her focus is on quality over quantity and stresses that tailoring a home for how you really live in it results in greater satisfaction than owning unused space.
 
One last trend that correlates to size involves the second home and retirement markets. There is growing demand for more efficient and smaller residences, however, the consumer still desires a high level of quality and upgraded finishes including granite counters, hardwood flooring, and ungraded appliances, to name a few. Some current examples in our marketplace include The Knolls, The Legends, and The Crossings.  
 
As you can see, the reasons are varied, and the rationale valid for this smaller “way of life” shift. Whether the decision to downsize is economically based, lifestyle-driven, ecologically motivated, or just a “time to simplify” conclusion, this trend has gained acceptance and market traction.