Rightsizing your home in 2016

The notion of empty-nesters moving from a large home to a condominium suite has been referred to as “downsizing,” but I have always felt that term lacking. In fact, I call it “rightsizing,” because it means selecting a new home that fits the lifestyle you want to lead. The term “downsizing” carries with it the notion that buyers opting for smaller square footage accept a lesser lifestyle as well, which is simply not true. Many buyers who go condo actually move up in luxury and comfort.

There are oh so many advantages to making this move. People who live in two- and three-storey homes may not truly appreciate the efficiency of living on one level or the livability of modern condo designs. Developers have worked diligently to come up with innovative floor plans that maximize space. Just think for a moment about a 2,000-sq.-ft. lowrise home, which may contain a lot of unusable space such as stairways, landing and hallways. Today’s 1,200-sq.-ft. condominium suites may actually have as much usable floor space. When you shop, compare apples with apples. Square footage does not tell the complete story. In a condominium, a smaller floor plan may be just as satisfying. And today’s condominiums are so well built and beautifully appointed with remarkable amenities, that a little less space in the individual suites simply means less cleaning to do.

Now, keep in mind that rightsizing can mean moving up in size as well. This is the beauty of modern condominiums – there is something for everyone who wants to enjoy the carefree condo lifestyle. Growing families will find two-bedroom plus den and three-bedroom designs to match their needs. These suites are also selling to retired couples who like to have their children and grandchildren visit. I know a couple who downsized when the kids went off to university, but found they missed having the extra space for visitors, so they rightsized themselves into a larger condominium.

They also love the fact that condominium amenities enable them to keep up long-standing traditions, such as hosting large family dinners, wedding and baby showers, birthday celebrations or other get togethers. Today’s buildings have gorgeous dining and party rooms, some with caterer’s kitchens and serveries.

Adding to the entertaining potential, most condos have outdoor areas such as courtyards, gardens and terraces with barbecue facilities and seating, outdoor pools, indoor pools, whirlpools, theatres, billiards rooms and more. Whatever stage of life you are at, a condominium offers a multitude of opportunities to gather with friends and family members to chill out or celebrate in a gala way.

One of the major draws of condominium living is that people who love to travel can leave without the worry of lawn maintenance and security. With home prices across Canada continually going up, many lowrise owners sell their homes here for such a good price that they move to a condominium and still have enough left for a vacation property in Florida!

How Canadians do love condos! And why not? First-time buyers find condo prices more within their financial reach, and the buildings are so close to public transportation that they may not need to own a vehicle. Busy professionals whose lives are so hectic that leisure time is elusive enjoy freedom from time-consuming maintenance, and the fact that they can exercise and socialize without having to leave home, once they get home.

The great news is that there is tremendous choice in the condominium market. Whatever your pocketbook and needs, you can find just the right suite. And then you can rightsize your life the condominium way!