The Upside of Downsizing

Moving from a house to an apartment can be a frightening experience, especially if you're not great with change. But change doesn’t have to be scary. While there are a lot of big adjustments that can be expected when downsizing, there are some excellent perks to look forward to.

Here's what you can look forward to when moving from a house to an apartment, and some of the ways you can make the very best of it.

Smaller space means less stuff:

Because apartments are designed for efficiency, one of the biggest challenges you will face is the drop in available space, and learning to live with that.

You will have to make considerations with just about everything: a smaller, more compact living room sofa, bedroom furniture that isn't too bulky, floating shelves, etc. The good news is now you'll have an excuse to go shopping for all new furniture and create exciting décor themes for your new home.

Less storage options (if any):

Now would be a good time to embrace the art of decluttering. You will need to decide if you're willing to say goodbye to some of your prized possessions or if you plan on being a Storage Unit Sally for the foreseeable future.

It can be hard to say get rid of things that you've had since college or items that hold sentimental value, but saying goodbye to extra baggage you've been holding onto can be a refreshing experience. If you decide that it's too hard to part with that baseball card collection you've been growing since you were 11, don't feel bad about getting some extra storage space... we will look the other way.

Hello fun-menities:

Did someone say resort-like amenities that you don't need to maintain? Forget mowing the lawn and shovelling snow. Those daunting tasks aren't your problem anymore. Be prepared to take full advantage of these freebee extras when you take the leap from house to apartment.

Community amenities (especially in this case), are optional but plentiful! You can take a relaxing pilates class, enjoy some comfort food and nearby eateries and cafés, stay in shape at the gym, and make new friends who live just down the hall.

Security:

Nothing feels better than knowing you can sleep safely at night. Living in close proximity to your neighbours provides that sense of security. Getting to know your neighbours makes it easier to spot a lurker who doesn't belong at the property.

Let's not forget how important things like pass cards, fob keys and security codes are in building communities. Be sure to ask your landlord what added security options are available to you.

There's no doubt that moving from a house to an apartment is a grueling and life-changing experience. But change is good, and this particular change is no different. Less square footage and little to no storage space are no match for less responsibility, more free time, extra money, and freedom to design your life as you see fit!