Tiny homes may be all the rage on HGTV, but for most people, they simply aren’t practical. The concept of downsizing does not imply going from one extreme to another. There is a much more realistic and reasonable solution for many, and the trend is catching on in a big way. “Retirees reportedly are flocking to smaller newly built homes that are customized to their personal needs and tastes,” according to an article in Realtor Mag, the official magazine for the National Association of Realtors. “Many are looking to cut back on home maintenance and repairs, which is why their preferences are straying away from larger, older homes.”
And downsizing doesn’t necessarily imply sacrificing style, comfort, or functionality. In fact, some are making great strides in ensuring all of that is incorporated into this exciting new trend. Take for example, The Enclave at Winding Brook near Blue Ridge, Georgia. Blue Ridge is a small mountain town in north Georgia, just two hours from Atlanta. It’s a popular destination for vacationers, weekenders, and most recently, full time residents. Many flock there from all over the country. The Enclave is a small intimate community with only heavily wooded 21 lots, averaging 1.5 acres.
The real estate market is hot in Blue Ridge, but The Enclave is one of a kind, focusing exclusively on the downsizing trend. Their homes average 1,000 square feet, which to some may sound absurdly small, but if you’re thinking tiny homes, think again. Their homes feature two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and full size everything. No composting toilets, no camping kitchens or anything else you see in traditional tiny homes. They’re on traditional foundations and are not portable in any way. What makes them stand out is their style and functionality. When you see one from the outside, you’d never believe they are that small. Going inside might just take your breath away. Their original intent was to serve the weekend home market, but their first two residents are full-time–and they’re not retirees.
A lower price tag – The cost of these homes can be significantly less than that of standard homes, which means you may not have a large mortgage over your head for the next 30 years.
More free time – A smaller house means less cleaning. Who isn’t on board with that idea? At 1,000 square feet, you can clean it top to bottom in about an hour. Compare that with a McMansion, most of which can’t be cleaned in an entire day. Do you really want to spend 1/7th of your week cleaning your dream home, or would you rather spend that time doing something more enjoyable.
Less clutter – Homes obey “Murphy’s Law of Flat Spaces.” If there is space, you will fill it with something. When designed properly, a 1,000 square foot home allows you live in a real home, but without the stuff that accumulates and serves no function while still allowing decorating. You have full size bedrooms, full size kitchen, etc., but through necessity you weed out the clutter found in most larger homes.
Smaller is greener – It makes sense that if your home is smaller, you will automatically reduce your energy consumption, which means more money in your pocket every month and a smaller carbon footprint.