Pelican Properties

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Getting Creative with Small Spaces

Sometimes location really is everything!  Sometimes finding the perfect rental home in the best location requires sacrifice.  Let go of the suburban mindset that you need a big two story house in a cookie cutter neighborhood.  In the most desirable locations space or amenities can be the sacrifice.  Personally I like amenities so I would sacrifice space first.  Below are some recommendations for downsizing and minimalizing.

1.  Declutter- I love to purge our unused belongings.  I like it almost as much as buying new stuff.  It's time to get rid of the old to make room for all those new presents Santa is bringing.  Making a move is a great time to get rid of possessions you no longer use.  Unless it's a family heirloom placing items in storage and paying for storage can be wasteful.  Have a yard sale, sell furniture online, consign, or donate to your favorite charity.  Some of mine are One 80 Place and Habitat for Humanity.  You can offer toys and books to your child's school.  You save time and money not moving belongings you no longer need.  

2.  Amenities- Take advantage of amenities.  Maybe you won't have a big yard but not having to landscape a yard frees up time for the pool and gym.   Many neighborhoods have community amenities such as community pools, play parks, exercise areas, and tennis courts.  Taking advantage of amenities gives you opportunities to get to know your neighbors and decrease the amount of work you have to put into property upkeep.  

3.  Upgrade the interior- Make your space sparkle no matter the size.  Focus on simplicity and interior colors that work.  Light wall colors make a space appear larger.  Purchase new furniture that goes together for a more modern look.  Add some pops of color in paintings, photos, and rugs.  

4.  Energy savings- Account for decreased utilities.  Less space means less energy consumption. Track your utility savings and plan for a vacation or entertainment allowance.

5.  Get outdoors- Smaller spaces closer to town allow for shorter commutes.  Homes close to a city or town central are usually a short distance from parks and restaurants.  Take advantage of homes that allow easy access to biking and walking instead of getting in the car.  I am a big fan of South Mt Pleasant because of it's short distance to parks, beaches, and restaurants.

6.  Tiny houses- Unless you are putting one in your back yard for an aging parent or placing one on land you own for a vacation getaway don't go there for your main home.  It's one thing to downsize space for location and it's another to try to put your family of four and pet Fido in a 154 sf home.  Smaller is not always easier.  I find that cleaning very small homes is often difficult because you use the entire space on a regular basis.  I think Tiny House communities are a wonderful idea for homeless communities.  

Bigger is not always better.  Smaller homes often have a lot of character and less property upkeep.  If you have six rooms in your home you never go into it might be time to think smaller.