Is It Time to Right-Size Your Home? 3 Surprising Costs of Staying Too Long

Hi there! I’m Sheila Howell, your trusted Central Ohio Realtor and relocation expert.
If you’re finding yourself in a quieter, emptier home these days—maybe the kids have moved out, or life just looks a little different—you’re not alone.

In fact, more than 40% of homeowners age 45-65 are actively considering downsizing according to a recent survey by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) source. The reasons? Higher expenses, unused space, and the desire for modern amenities and community engagement.

So, is your current home still serving your lifestyle? Or is it quietly costing you more than you realize?

Here Are 3 Overlooked Costs of Staying in a Home That No Longer Fits Your Life

1. Insurance and Property Tax Creep

Large homes typically come with larger premiums and tax assessments. Over time, these can escalate quietly. If your home hasn’t been reassessed in a while—or if the neighborhood has increased in value—you might be paying thousands more annually than you need to.

A report by Bankrate found that the average property tax bill in Ohio is around $2,200 per year, but that number can double or triple in higher-end neighborhoods source.

2. Maintenance Fatigue and Surprise Repairs

Bigger homes = bigger responsibilities. Roofs, HVAC systems, windows, landscaping, and plumbing all wear out. And let’s be honest—when you’re no longer using half the space, it feels even more exhausting to maintain.

According to HomeAdvisor, the average homeowner spends over $3,000 a year on maintenance and repairs, and that number climbs significantly for homes over 3,000 square feet source.

3. Missed Opportunities for Joy and Simplicity

This is the emotional cost: that subtle feeling of disconnection when your space doesn’t support how you actually live now. Whether it's entertaining on a modern patio, joining a vibrant community, or simply cutting your utility bills in half—you deserve a home that matches your vision for this next chapter.

Is Downsizing Right for You? Let's Explore the Possibilities

If you’ve been feeling like your home no longer fits the way you live—too much space, too much upkeep, and not enough joy—you’re not alone. For many Central Ohio homeowners, the idea of “downsizing” isn’t about sacrificing space. It’s about right-sizing your life to match your next chapter.

Think about it:

• Are you spending time and money maintaining rooms you never use?

• Is the idea of a more modern, low-maintenance home starting to sound like a dream?

• Do you wish you had more financial freedom to travel, invest, or just enjoy life without the weight of a large property?

Downsizing doesn’t have to mean “less.” In fact, it often means more:

• More efficiency

• More lifestyle perks

• More financial flexibility

• More connection to community

You deserve a home that feels like freedom, not a project.

That’s why I offer a personalized downsizing strategy for clients who are ready to explore what’s next—without pressure, without overwhelm. From prepping your current home for market, to finding that perfect next place with the upgrades you’ve always wanted, I help manage the entire process with care and clarity.

And yes, I know the logistics can feel daunting—what to do with all the stuff, how to get top dollar, or how to time it all perfectly. That’s exactly where I come in. My approach includes:

• A detailed project plan and timeline

• A network of organizers, movers, and stagers

• Expert pricing, marketing, and negotiation to get you the best deal on both sides of the move

📍Whether you’re looking in New Albany, Granville, Westerville, or anywhere across the Silicon Heartland, I’ve got you covered.

Let’s talk about what’s possible.
💬 Message me or 📅 schedule a consultation today. No pressure—just possibilities.