Friday, Dec 6, 2024

Have you ever felt a bit restless in your home? I certainly have. After living in our current home for 10 years—a beautiful home that has served us so well—I found myself wondering, “Is it time for a change?” It’s a strange feeling because we’ve always been so intentional about our living spaces. We know they’re meant to align with our lives, not just be a place to sleep and store stuff. And still, there it was: restlessness.

Ken and I have lived in two homes for over a decade each. We’ve built memories, made tweaks to suit our needs, and poured love into them. Yet, here we were, sitting in the hot tub (our favorite place for big conversations), asking ourselves the tough questions. Were we restless because it was time to move—or was it something else?

As we talked, we realized we needed clarity. So, we started by taking a closer look at how our home was serving us today and how it might fit with the future we’re imagining. We asked:

– Does the layout still work for how we live day-to-day?

– Is the maintenance manageable, or is it starting to feel overwhelming?

– Is our community still where we want to be?

– Can our home adapt to changes in the next 5-10 years?

These weren’t easy questions, and as much as we wanted clear answers, we realized something important: the restlessness wasn’t just about the house. It was about the cultural pressure to minimize, simplify, and downsize. We’ve seen so many of our friends doing it as they transition to retirement. And while it might be right for them, is it right for us?

The truth is, I love having enough dishes for 30 people to gather at our table. I don’t mind having fabric in the basement that’s been with me since my early 20s. (Ken teases me about it all the time!) For me, it’s not clutter—it’s possibility. But I also know some people feel suffocated by having too much, even if it’s tucked away. My sister, for example, thrives with just the bare essentials.

This made me think: our homes are deeply personal. What feels “right” to one person might feel completely wrong to another. It’s why decisions about moving or staying aren’t just practical—they’re emotional.

After our reflection, Ken and I decided we’re staying—for now. The restlessness was less about our home and more about taking stock of where we are in life. But if we ever reach a point where our space no longer aligns with our needs, we’ll make a change.

So, if you’re feeling restless, I’d encourage you to pause and ask yourself:

1. What’s really behind the feeling? Is it about your home, or is it something else in your life?

2. Does your home still work for your current needs? Consider everything from size to layout to location.

3. What’s your vision for the future? Does your home align with where you’re headed, or will it hold you back?

The beauty of taking the time to reflect is that you can make intentional choices. Maybe moving is the right answer, or maybe you’ll discover a renewed love for the home you’re already in. Either way, clarity leads to peace.

If you’re not sure where to start, Ken and I would be happy to walk through the process with you. We’ve helped thousands of families find the perfect space for their stage of life, and we’d be honored to help you too.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about a house. It’s about aligning your home with your life, your goals, and your heart.

If you’re feeling unsure about whether to stay or move, we’re here to help you find clarity. At the Dekker Team, it’s about more than real estate—it’s about creating a home and life that work for you. Reach out to us for a conversation, and let’s explore your options together. Call us at 613-867-6058, or email us at together@dekkerteam.com.