Single and an empty nester: Downsizing my home and cutting costs

Five years after an amicable divorce, I found myself living in a three-bedroom apartment perfectly situated near my previous neighborhood. This location worked well for the shared custody of my two school-aged children. The apartment's layout and setting were to my liking.

Yet, over the years, the rent crept up significantly—an extra $1,000 compounded over the time I lived there. The increasingly thin apartment walls and the loud top-floor neighbors added to my frustrations. Now, with my oldest contemplating a move from their father's place and my youngest off to college three and a half hours away, reducing my living space felt timely.

Priorities for my new living space

Initially, I toyed with the idea of moving within my current complex; the simplicity of it was appealing. However, with my children beginning their independent lives, I felt a symbolic change was necessary. No longer was proximity to them a major factor.

A brief flirtation with purchasing a condo or townhouse was quashed by the daunting real estate costs in this metro area and steep interest rates. Plus, with thoughts of relocating to Europe to be with my boyfriend in mind, committing to a property seemed ill-timed.

Several essentials guided the choice of my next home: a top-floor unit to avoid disturbances from above, a second bedroom for my children's visits and a workspace, plus an outdoor balcony. Positive reviews from other tenants were also vital. Preparing for the move, I embraced the Marie Kondo method, paring down decades worth of belongings, resulting in over 25 large bags for donation or disposal.

Saving money, accepting trade-offs

Hitting my target of $1,000 in monthly savings involved moving into one of the complex's non-renovated top-floor units—yielding an actual $1,100 savings. Despite being dated, featuring extensive carpeting and some outdated kitchen features, its price was ideal. While the kitchen's limited storage and older appliances were a letdown compared to the stainless steel elegance of my old place, I adapted with a new bakers rack for my beloved cookware.

Despite these compromises, the new apartment provides significant peace and quiet, free from inconsiderate neighbors. Cathedral ceilings and a gas fireplace grace the living room, while the balcony offers a tranquil view over trees and a water fixture. My aim was to transform it into 'home' quickly; I unpacked and decorated in a matter of days.

The most challenging shift remains the location. Though just a 20-minute distance, it feels far removed from the borough where I spent a quarter-century. My favorite pho restaurant is missed, though having a Trader Joe's nearby is a perk. The experience emphasized how much clutter I still own, prompting future cleanouts, especially of the extra bedroom's closet.

With springtime, I anticipate enjoying my balcony and exploring the lively lifestyle center nearby. Each day, I remind myself that this current adjustment is trivial compared to the anticipated move overseas. This isn't my permanent residence, but for now, it is undeniably my home.