“One Guest Room, Five Guests: How the Holidays Reveal It’s Time to Move On”

There’s something about the holidays that brings everything into focus — the laughter, the chaos, the warmth, and yes… the space issues.

Whether you’re cramming air mattresses into your living room or wondering why you’re still heating three unused bedrooms, the festive season often reveals what your home is really doing for you — or not doing for you anymore.

🎄 When the House Feels Too Big

For many empty nesters, the holidays are the only time the house feels full. You’ve got adult kids visiting from out of town, maybe even with kids of their own. And suddenly, for one magical (and slightly overwhelming) week, your home is alive again.

But when the dust settles, the tree’s back in the box, and the guests have gone home, you’re left staring at a formal dining room that hasn’t hosted a dinner in months and a second floor you barely visit.

If this sounds familiar, downsizing might not just be practical — it might be freeing. Lower maintenance, lower bills, and more time and money to spend on the things you actually love (like travel, or spoiling the grandkids).

🧸 When the House Feels Way Too Small

On the flip side, maybe you’re the one doing all the hosting — and your tiny kitchen, shared bathroom, and lack of guest space are making the holidays feel more stressful than special.

Your toddler’s napping in the walk-in closet, you’re cooking Christmas dinner elbow-to-elbow with your partner, and everyone’s shoes are piled three-deep at the front door. It’s cozy, yes — but also tight.

If the holidays have made you dream of a bigger kitchen, a finished basement, or just a bit more breathing room, it might be time to explore upsizing.

🛏️ “We’ll Just Sleep on the Pullout” – Said No One Happily

Let’s be real — no one enjoys sleeping on a sofa bed under a Spider-Man blanket in the home office. But we do it to be together. That said, if every holiday season feels like a game of musical beds, it might be worth considering a layout that better fits your lifestyle and your loved ones.

Whether that’s a bungalow with a guest room, a multi-gen setup, or a home with a separate in-law suite — your space should work with you, not against you.

🎁 A Home That Matches Your Next Chapter

Life changes. And the space that served you well five or ten years ago might not be the one you need today. The holidays are a great time to reflect — and if that reflection includes thoughts like “Why am I still here?” or “We’ve outgrown this place,” it might be time to take the next step.

When you’re ready to explore your options — whether that’s downsizing, upsizing, or right-sizing — I’m here to help you make the move with confidence.