The ultimate guide to rightsizing

What is rightsizing? 

Rightsizing is a process all about finding the home for you - not too big, not too small, but just right. It means choosing a home that aligns with your lifestyle, needs, and future plans. 

For some People, rightsizing might mean downsizing - moving to a smaller home if the space they have is more than they need. This might be the right move if your children have grown up and moved out, or if you simply want an easier to manage home. 

For others, rightsizing can mean upsizing - moving to a larger home when your life changes and you need more space.  For instance, if you’re managing illness or a disability and need more space for equipment or perhaps a room adaptation. 

Ultimately, rightsizing is about matching your home to your lifestyle in a way that brings comfort, convenience and peace of mind. It’s not about following trends. It’s about choosing what works best for you.

What’s the difference between rightsizing and downsizing? 

Downsizing has been a popular buzz word for years, but it only tells part of the story. Downsizing simply means moving to a smaller home - often to reduce maintenance, cut costs, or simplify daily living. It’s typically associated with people entering older age or wanting to release equity for retirement. It’s a practical choice for many People, especially when life changes and extra space is no longer needed. Whereas rightsizing is about finding the right fit you now and in the future.  

The benefits of rightsizing 

Rightsizing is about making sure the space you’re in is right for you and your family. Once you’re in the right place, you can enjoy a whole host of benefits, whether that means moving to a smaller home or choosing somewhere with more room to grow: 

More financial freedom - Choosing a smaller, more affordable home can reduce your monthly costs, leaving you with more money to spend on the things that matter most. If you’re upsizing, it can mean investing in a home that supports your long-term plans, helping you avoid future moves. 

Time back for yourself - A home that matches your needs can simplify your everyday living. Downsizers often enjoy less cleaning and maintenance, while upsizers may benefit from having dedicated spaces - like a home office, playroom or storage - that keep life organised and stress-free. 

Better physical wellbeing - Moving to a home that suits your needs, whether that’s a home with assisted living or a home with accessible design. It could mean that extra space for mobility equipment, or room to set up a fitness area, can make daily life safer and more comfortable. 

Improved mental wellbeing - Rightsizing can bring you closer to loved ones, place you in a supportive Community, or simply give you space to relax. For some People, this might mean a quieter location and a garden to unwind in, while for others it could mean a vibrant neighbourhood with social activities on the doorstep. 

Things to consider when rightsizing 

Rightsizing starts with understanding what you truly need from a home - both now and in the future. Here are some helpful points to think about: 

Think about how your lifestyle looks today. 

How has your day-to-day life changed over time? If you're considering downsizing, consider if it would make life simpler and provide a home that's easier to manage. While if you're upsizing, consider what extra space would improve your life - a home office, a hobby room, a bigger kitchen for hosting, or a garden for pets and children. 

Plan for what you might need in the future. 

When rightsizing, it's important to consider your future plan from both an emotional and a practical level. Do you want room to start a family? Maybe you need more room for your growing clan you already have. Or is it more important to be closer to family, healthcare and local amenities?  

These are all questions that can help you pinpoint what you should be looking for when rightsizing.  

Choose a location that truly complements your lifestyle. 

A home isn't just about the building - it's about where it's located too. If you love fresh air and peaceful walks, living near green spaces, countryside or water might be ideal. If you're a social butterfly, look for vibrant Communities with activities, groups and places to meet others.  

If you're upsizing, it's also wise to consider access to schools, transport links, safe outdoor areas, and space for future travel and commuting needs. 

Make sure the space is practical, comfortable and easy to live in. 

If you have physical needs, such as difficulty with stairs or reduced mobility, compare the cost and effort of adapting your current home with moving somewhere already suited to your needs.  

If you're upsizing, think about whether additional space will remain practical to clean and maintain - and whether it will continue to work for you in years to come. 

Take your wellbeing and peace of mind into account. 

Rightsizing is also about supporting your health - physical, mental and emotional. This might mean finding a smaller home that reduces stress and upkeep or choosing a bigger home that gives you space to relax, entertain, exercise or pursue hobbies. 

If you prefer to plan ahead, choosing a home that supports your wellbeing now can be a great way to secure your future and live life on your own terms. 

Taking the time to think through these considerations can help you make a confident choice - one that feels thoughtful, balanced and right for your next chapter, whether that means more space, less space, or simply the right space.

What are the rightsizing options? 

There are plenty of ways to rightsize with Places for People, depending on what you need from your next home. Here’s a quick overview of the options available: 

Retirement Living 

Our Retirement Living homes are purpose-built apartments for adults who want to live independently in a safe, comfortable setting. Many developments include communal facilities and onsite teams who can offer support, helping you stay connected and enjoy everyday life with confidence. 

Supportive Living 

If you’d benefit from a little more help day-to-day, we offer homes where care and support services are available on site. Working with specialist providers, we make sure Customers receive personalised support while continuing to enjoy their own private home. 

Affordable rent 

If you're looking to move within affordable or social rented homes, you can explore HomeSwapper. Whether you need more space, less space, or a different location, we offer a variety of homes across the country through transfers or mutual exchanges, helping you find the right fit for your lifestyle. 

Homeownership and Shared Ownership 

For Customers who are thinking about buying, we also offer traditional homeownership, shared ownership and share equity options. Whether you want to fully own a home or take your first step onto the property ladder with a part-buy, part-rent arrangement, there are choices designed to suit different budgets and long-term plans.