Energy Costs May Begin To Influence Home Size

Some younger families and retirees are choose to "downsize" their homes. The decision comes with several lifestyle benefits.

1 minute read

May 24, 2006, 1:00 PM PDT

By Chris Steins @planetizen

"The average size of a house in the U.S. increased from 1,905 square feet in 1987 to 2,450 in 2005. Still, some home buyersâ€"young families as well as empty-nesters and retireesâ€"are deciding that bigger isnâ€™t always better. Hereâ€™s why four families started thinking smaller:"

Less Financial Stress

Less Maintenance

More Freedom

More Comfort

The article also includes a summary, "How Big Is Too Big?" of recent decisions by local governments to restrict large houses or lots and encourage smaller-sized development.

Thanks to Ashwani Vasishth

FULL STORY: Four Reasons To Downsize

Sunday, May 21, 2006 in Parade

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