We downsized from lg. 4 bdrm, lg. corner lot to 4 level, townhouse style condo. Eliminated one bedrm, main flr. family rm, and a multitude of yard care issues. Before taking any action, I suggest you carefully look at which rooms you spend the most time in and the activities you need to keep everyone happy. Everyone will need to co operate and buy-in to the decision.
Except for MBdrm, the other 2 are small but well designed and efficient. DKs domain is basement F/Rm which they prefer. Galley style kitchen limits the mess any of us can create a 'breakfast' room & adjoining deck allows for family meals and 'projects.' 2 full baths + 2, 1/2 baths are great if you have teens. We need the dining rm as we host dinner parties nearly weekly but DH has his roll top desk there which is a 'server' on Sunday and his home 'office' the rest of the time. The shelves in the bottom hold books, drawers hold supplies, desk is the right sz. for his laptop and cubbies hold files and project accordian file folders. The laundry rm adjacent to entry is sewing rm, wrap zone and launch pad for items to be taken ea. morning. We have to be diligent to get laundry done, folded, put away or we have chaos.
Outer wear must go in cupboard or entry is clogged. Storage is shelving in dbl garage. Every area must function as it is designated or no one will find anything! We have sm TVs in bdrms and giant screen in LV Rm and basement.
Condo staff do all outside maintenance, landscaping, repairs. Taxes and insurance halved, no mortgage, better public transportation, good shopping within walking distance, award winning schools.
Downside: if I were a snob, I'd feel I hadn't made it!
|