Downsizing: The Latest Trend in Real Estate Is Downsizing for You?

LARCHMONT, NY – The most significant trend in real estate in years is DOWNSIZING. You worked so hard to own your home, it’s hard to imagine moving on—much less to a smaller abode. But while downsizing your home may involve major lifestyle changes, there are a lot of advantages to moving into a smaller space.

On Monday, March 14 at 7:00pm, the Larchmont Public library presents panel discussion and seminar featuring industry experts who will provide answers to your questions and demystify the process of downsizing.

THE PANEL INCLUDES:

· DIANE SILVERMAN of Keller-Williams NY Realty. Diane is one of the top condo specialists in Westchester County. She will discuss what your condo options are and how the home buying and selling process works.

· MICHAEL SHAPOT of Keller-Williams NY Realty. Michael and his team of agents cover all of Manhattan and will talk about the exciting option of living in the City.

· MARIE GRAHAM with The Refreshed Home. Marie is an Accredited Home Stager and the owner of The Refreshed Home. How to prioritize your time and efforts in getting your house market-ready, and getting you ready to move is her specialty.

· DOUGLAS THOMAS with The Atria in Ossining. Douglas’ specialty is helping people find the perfect senior living option for an elderly loved on who can no longer handle living alone.

· DEBBIE GARTNER of The Flooring Girl – Floor Coverings International. Debbie will share tips on selecting flooring and how it can make your space feel more luxurious and larger.

The average American home has grown from under 1,900 square feet some 20 years ago to more than 2,400 square feet, according to 2013 U.S. Census data. Families who bought five, ten, or even 15 years ago or more might find many rooms unused as their children have grown and moved out. While the baby boomers continue to hold on to many of those larger homes, according to recent reports, experts predict an uptick in downsizing as the oldest boomers enter their mid-70s.

Downsizing remains one of the most effective ways to lower housing and energy costs. Advantages to downsizing include lower mortgage payments, lower utility bills, less to clean and easier to maintain and less yard maintenance.

“We continue to move away from the McMansion chapter of residential design, with more demand for practicality throughout the home,” writes Kermit Baker, chief economist at the American Institute of Architects. “There has been a drop-off in the popularity of upscale property enhancements such as formal landscaping, decorative water features, tennis courts and gazebos.”

Home downsizing is really about making do with less. But many people would say that less is more. Rather than devoting your time and energy to supporting and maintaining your home, you may find yourself devoting more of your time and energy to enjoying it and to the pursuit of other activities such as travel.

Even if you’re not ready to downsize, you owe it to yourself to take advantage of this free seminar so that you’ll be as informed as possible. You’ll be a lot better prepared and will know what to do when the time does come. For additional information, visit the Larchmont Public Library at www.larchmontlibrary.org.

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