Condominiums present unique challenges, whether downsizing from a house or moving from a similar living space. The nature of owning a home that shares grounds and amenities with neighbors can be something of a culture change. This hybrid living environment also leads to some unusual issues single-family homeowners typically don’t face. Before signing a purchase and sales agreement and scheduling movers, consider the following.
What Downsizing Challenges Does Condo Life Present?
In recent years, the average single-family home has doubled in square-footage from about 1,600 during the 1970s to upwards of 2,500 in 2019. Whether you live in an older home or relatively new construction, homeowners usually occupy more space than most condos. For example, the average one-bedroom condo provides 700 square feet or less. If you are moving from a house to a condo, consider downsizing strategies such as the following.
- Usefulness: Rather than clutter a smaller condo, bring only items you use regularly. Writing down how often you use items in question is an excellent way to measure usefulness.
- Purge: It’s essential to rid yourself of underused items that take up valuable space. Consider methods such as tag sales, charitable donations, and self-storage if necessary.
- Measurements: Given that homeowners could experience a living space reduction of 900 to 1,800 square feet, breaking out the old tape measure could help avoid moving day headaches. If a sofa, loveseat, or dining room table doesn’t fit, don’t bring it.
- Space: Perhaps the most productive way to organize a downsizing move involves planning each room. Take the measurements of furniture, bedroom sets, and even products that reside on kitchen countertops. Put down easy-to-remove tape and visualize how each space will function.
These and other preparatory strategies can help homeowners seamlessly transition into condo life. But beyond logistical issues associated with moving personal belongings, there are also lifestyle changes to consider.
What Lifestyle Challenges Do Condos Present?
First-time buyers who want the wide-reaching amenities condos offer would be well-served to consider the community aspects. Condo life typically involves access to fitness centers, swimming pools, and common areas for people to congregate. But unlike owning purely private property, residents sometimes have to balance their use with others. In a sense, condo property owners are tasked with negotiating outdoor spaces as if they were public property. Beyond logistical access hurdles, consider the following.
- Parking: Condominiums often come with assigned parking and limited spaces for visitors. Inviting family members to stay for the holidays may require some negotiation.
- Cost: A property management group may oversee financial issues such as maintenance, repair, and annual taxes. Condo owners can find themselves on the hook for rising monthly and yearly costs.
- Storage: When single-family homeowners accumulate too much stuff, they often have storage options. These may entail adding a room, cleaning out the garage, or purchasing an outbuilding. When condo residents get overrun, paying for self-storage or getting rid of items rank among the limited solutions.
Worth the Move
Condo life can be rewarding and provide excellent quality of life for the right person. But when making any significant change, it’s always important to exercise due diligence. That’s typically why condo buyers work with experienced and reliable moving companies to shepherd them through the transition. If you are planning a move, reach out to us for a price quote.