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 isn’t always better. Here’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

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