METCALF MOVING BLOG
Signs You May Need a Bigger Home
Housing needs evolve over time. Indeed, the average American owns the same home for about eight years. Often, they move from a starter home to a larger one.
Here are some signs you may need a bigger home.
Your Family is Growing
A perfect house for a couple may be impractical once the couple has several growing children.
Consider a two-bedroom, one-bath home, for example. The couple can occupy one bedroom and use the other as an office or guest room. When a baby comes, they may be able to turn the guestroom into a nursery, but giving up an office may be more problematic. Also, the house becomes crowded as the child grows or more children come.
You Have Hobbies
Hobbies provide many mental health benefits. Active hobbies also improve physical health. If you have a hobby like gardening, woodworking, or collecting large items, you might require significantly more inside or outside space.
You Entertain Frequently
Having enough room for people to move around and chat without bumping into each other is essential for any gathering. You may need a larger house if you frequently host get-togethers at your home and they feel cramped.
You Started Working from Home
You may need more space if you’ve recently started working remotely or are running a small business from your home. A long-term work-from-home office needs dedicated space and ergonomic and productivity features.
A Relative Has Moved In
If an older relative has moved into the home, you might need more space to accommodate them. Also, adult children often return to the house, reclaiming space you may have been using for a hobby room or office.
You Need Personal Space
About 25 to 40 percent of Americans are introverts. Introverts focus on their inner thoughts and drive energy from being introspective. They spend energy during social situations.
If you or other family members are introverts, you’ll need a quiet space to retire and reflect at the end of each day, especially if you work with people most of the time. As your family grows, finding solitary space becomes more manageable if your house grows, too.
Considerations
To buy a larger home, you need to be able to afford one. Here are some factors to consider when weighing your options about moving to a larger home.
Your Housing Costs are Low
Generally, housing expenses should be no more than 32 percent of your income. Housing expenses include rent or mortgage principal, interest, property taxes, and insurance (PITI). They also include utilities and homeowner’s association dues. A larger home generally has higher utility costs.
You can afford more space if you can buy while staying within the 32 percent guidelines.
Your DTI Ratio is Low
Your DTI measures the ratio of your debt payments relative to your income. Financial planners say your debt payments should be at most 40 percent of your income.
Your Savings Are Solid
Before buying a larger home, ensure you have enough money for emergencies. In most cases, you’ll need at least a 5 percent down payment on your new home.
Ready to Move?
Moving into a larger house is more complicated than moving into a smaller space. We can help you stay organized and move efficiently. Contact us for a quote today.
