22.10.2025 (The Upside of Downsizing)
The Upside of Downsizing: Advice
Study 5. Hindsight and Advice for Developers and Downsizers
Learnings from those who have downsized offer critical insights for design and marketing.
It's all about the conversation.
Do Thorough Research:
Downsizers who are satisfied typically did a lot of research, talking to friends and visiting many properties.
Prioritise Personal Needs:
Advice given is to “think of yourselves and what you need and want, not what the family/kids need and want”. It’s important for downsizers to own their decision and enjoy life.
Consider a “Trial Run” for Unit Living:
One downsizer suggested that, if possible, people moving from a house to a unit should try unit living first (by renting or buying with the willingness to resell if it doesn’t suit) to understand their needs and wants.
The Emotional Element:
Recognise the emotional challenge of leaving a long-term family home.
Downsizers are looking for more than a smaller home, they want comfort, choice, and quality. It’s not just a move, it’s a new way of living for downsizers.
Luxury within Affordability:
Downsizers are open to having “some luxury (within affordability)” in their new home.
Gradual Downsizing for Family Gatherings:
The need for appropriate spaces for family to gather even after downsizing should be considered, as “downsizing should be a gradual process”.
Ongoing Maintenance:
While reduced, new homes can still require a “reasonable amount of maintenance,” which developers should be mindful of in their messaging.
When we acknowledge the emotions of leaving a long-term home, we create spaces that resonate on a deeper, more supportive level.