PROPERTY NEWS - “Small living spaces are great as they offer more affordability,” says Graham Ross of Just Property Blouberg. 

“You save on utilities and home maintenance. And it will be easier to make the capital investments that will save you even more in the long run, like a solar system. Going small will allow you to buy in a better area. And if you are downscaling, you’ll have more for little luxuries like travelling, and to put towards other investments.”

Ana Roberts of Just Property Upper Highway agrees. “Another great benefit is that small spaces require less furniture - a few great statement pieces allow for simple, minimalist decor and a beautiful, welcoming home at a fraction of the cost of furnishing a big house. And the cleaning is a breeze!”

Less clutter equals less stress, and isn’t that what we are all looking for now?

Ana and Graham’s tips for cosy-home hunting 

Location, location, location.

You want to remain close to your family and friends, and have ease of access to stores and other amenities such as doctors, hospitals etc. Narrow your search to areas that tick these boxes.

What are your deal breakers? 

Does the home offer the main assets that are important to you, for example a good kitchen, a nice family space, a shower etc?

Current wants vs future needs. 

If you are downsizing because the children have moved out and you are getting older, consider a single story with the ease of access rather than a property with stairs that may cause a problem later.

Growing pains

Will you be able to handle the upkeep of a big garden, or is it time for something smaller that is more manageable? Will your pets cope with a smaller space; is there somewhere nearby where you could walk them?

Fit for purpose

Will your favourite furniture fit in the new space? Make a list of every piece with which you can’t part. Take measurements. Then take a tape measure with you when you start narrowing down your list of potential new homes.

Storage wars

Is there enough cupboard space in bedrooms and in the kitchen? Do you need outside storage too?

Peace of mind

Check the security features of each property you visit. Find out how safe the area is and what security is available. Ask the neighbours, chat to the local police, phone a security company that focuses on the neighbourhood.

Guest appeal

Consider how many bedrooms you will need going forward - if your kids have all moved out of home, you may only need one spare room for when they or your friends come to stay.

Paper trails

Remember to ask for compliance certificates, even those that aren't required in your province (for example, gas installations and solar geysers should come with a compliance certificate - if something goes wrong and you don't have one, your insurers may refuse to replace the geyser, or cover damage caused by a gas issue).

Complex questions

If you are moving into a complex or an apartment, be aware that there may be the added expense of levies, clubhouse fees and/or security. Ask about historical escalation rates and request a copy of the body corporate rules (if applicable.) 

Ask your neighbours if there are any noise issues, does sound travel through the walls and ceiling? How old is the plumbing, the lifts etc - upgrading such items is very expensive and you’ll have to contribute. What parking is available for guests?

Be prepared

If you are downsizing, it’s important to be sure that you are mentally prepared to move from a large house into a smaller space. The stress of selling a family home, getting rid of much-loved pieces of furniture and other nicknacks, dealing with movers etc can take its toll even on younger adults. 

Add empty-nest syndrome to the equation, and one can experience a deep sense of loss.

(For the more elderly, transfer trauma or relocation stress syndrome is characterised by anxiety, confusion, hopelessness and loneliness. The impact should not be underestimated. If you are considering moving elderly parents into an assisted living scenario counselling is an important part of the process.)

That said, if you’re excited and ready for this next phase, Little House Lovely Home on Facebook promises that “small homes make wallets fatter, material possessions fewer, relationships stronger, conversations easier, laughter louder, cleaning time shorter and fun times longer”.

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