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- People downsize their homes for many reasons, especially after a major life event later in life.
- But downsizing doesn't always work out, and some people who do it have regrets later.
- Here are some of the biggest regrets people have after downsizing.
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People downsize their homes - and lives - for many reasons.
Maybe their children have gone off to college and they don't need as much space. Maybe they're retiring and want to get rid of possessions they no longer use. Or perhaps they simply want to reduce their housing costs.
However, when downsizing, the benefits don't always outweigh the drawbacks.
Sonya Myers, a realtor and author of "Downsize Your Home, Rightsize Your Life," said she found that out the hard way. She and her husband moved from a 3,000 square-foot house to one less half the size, but said they quickly realized the change was too drastic for their lifestyle. They then "rightsized," as she says, to a slightly bigger home with a more efficient floor plan.
Read more: 6 signs you should sell your home, according to experts
"If you're thinking about downsizing, consider factors such as how much space you need if you work from home or have hobbies, whether you enjoy overnight guests, and how much privacy you're willing to sacrifice if you have a partner," Myers said.
Read on to see the biggest regrets from Myers and other people who have downsized.