There comes a point in many homeowners’ lives when their once-perfect space starts to feel a little too tight — the walls seem closer, the cupboards overflow, and family dinners feel more cramped than cosy.
But how do you know when it’s truly time to make a move? The right answer will depend on your lifestyle, priorities, and the current property market. What matters most is recognising when your home no longer fits your needs and being ready to take the next step toward a space that truly works for you.
Here are five clear signs that it might be time to upsize and find a space that better suits your evolving needs.
Growing family, shrinking home
Maybe you moved in as a couple, but now the kids, pets, or even extended family have joined the picture. As your household grows, so do the demands on space. Suddenly, two bedrooms aren’t enough, and sharing one bathroom among four people becomes a logistical challenge.
More family members often mean more belongings, more routines, and more privacy needs. If bedtime battles over shared space or early-morning bathroom traffic jams are becoming your norm, it’s a strong indicator you need a home that reflects your family’s new size.
Related: The advantages of upsizing
Overflowing closets and cramped cupboards
Is your garage overflowing? Are closets crammed, and surfaces cluttered? Over time, we accumulate things from seasonal decor and sporting gear to children’s toys and keepsakes. If your current home lacks sufficient built-in storage or flexible spaces like attics, basements, or utility rooms, you may be spending more time organising than living comfortably.
Constant decluttering, rotating storage bins, and off-site storage rentals are all signs that your house might be too small for your lifestyle.
Working from home is your new norm
Remote and hybrid work have become the standard for many. What might have started as a temporary kitchen table setup has now become a daily struggle to balance Zoom calls with background noise.
Without a dedicated home office or a quiet nook, productivity and work-life balance suffer. A lack of boundaries between work and home life can also negatively affect mental well-being. If your home can’t accommodate a separate workspace, it might be time to find one that does.
Your home isn’t guest-ready
If you’re someone who enjoys hosting family dinners, birthday parties, or holiday get-togethers but find yourself constantly limited by space, it may be a sign that your home no longer supports your lifestyle.
A small dining area, a cramped living room, or a limited outdoor space can put a damper on socialising. You shouldn’t have to cross guests off your list because your space can’t handle more than a handful of people. A more spacious home could turn entertaining from stressful to seamless.
When expanding becomes the only option
Thinking of knocking down walls, building an addition, or converting the attic? While home extensions can be a great solution, they’re often expensive and time-consuming. And they aren’t always the most cost-effective route, especially if your neighbourhood has a ceiling price that limits your return on investment.
According to current data, the cost of extending a house in the UK averages upwards of £1,500 – £2,500 per square metre. In many cases, upsizing might offer more space and better value, especially in locations where new housing stock is growing.
Is it time to trade up for more space?
If several of these signs sound familiar, you’re likely ready to move house. The good news? You’re not alone. According to DataLoft, just under 250,000 new homes were completed in the year leading to Q2 2023, a modest 4% increase quarter-on-quarter (MHCLG), demonstrating that supply is growing to meet rising demand.
Whether you’re craving more room for your family, seeking space to work, or dreaming of a home that reflects your lifestyle, moving could be the right choice.
Outgrown your home? Let’s talk about your next move
If your home no longer suits your lifestyle, it may be time to consider a space that does. The right move can offer more comfort, better functionality, and the freedom to enjoy life without compromise.
That bigger kitchen, private home office, or perfect place to entertain can be closer to you than you think, and you don’t have to figure it out alone. Connect with your local Parkers team today and start exploring homes that truly fit the way you live.
Source: Average House Extension Cost: Your Family Home Expansion Guide 2024 – UK Construction Blog
Further reading:
Why its so important to plan your finances before moving
