While the average family size is decreasing, the average size of a new house is increasing. Part of it has to do with the fact that builders need to make a profit and bigger is profitable. In 1973, the average size of a new home was 1525; today it is over 2500 square feet.
There are some advantages to buying a smaller house. Generally, they cost less to buy than a larger house, which means a smaller mortgage. There is also less to clean and maintain, and less to heat and cool.
For families with children, it may also mean actually seeing the children and spending time with them. Children do not need all that much space it is generally parents who need the extra space because they have children.
When deciding to buy a home, think about size. Owning a 600-800 square foot home could mean more time and money for travel, or having the flexibility to take a lower-paying job, or being able to afford to have a spouse work less to care for a parent or child.
As we age in place, smaller can mean staying home longer. Less storage space makes it harder to accumulate stuff. Space tends to fill up with stuff.
