09/06/2026
🏡 Keep an open mind when downsizing...
One thing I see regularly as a buyer's agent is buyers dismissing a property because "all the bedrooms are downstairs" or they're separated from the main living and entertaining areas.
But for someone working shift work, in healthcare, hospitality, or emergency services, that's often a huge advantage. A quieter, darker sleeping zone away from the activity of the home can be ideal.
The other common objection I hear is:
"We love it, but it has stairs, so it's not suitable for downsizing."
Yet many of these same buyers end up spending an extra $100,000–$150,000 to buy a smaller home in a lesser location simply to avoid stairs.
My advice? Before ruling it out, get a quote for a lift.
Most residential lifts are now costing somewhere in the vicinity of $25,000–$35,000, and many modern homes already have the perfect stairwell void or floor plan to accommodate one.
I inspected a great example in Merewether this week.
It offered a fantastic layout for downsizers, including:✔ Large master suite✔ Guest bedroom✔ Separate his-and-hers home offices/studies✔ Low-maintenance living✔ All entertaining spaces upstairs to maximise light and outlook
The bonus? It had the convenience of a townhouse but was Torrens Title (no strata fees), complete with a double garage.
And the location was exceptional — an easy level walk to the beach, cafés and restaurants at The Junction, the tennis courts and bowling club at Bar Beach, and just around the corner from Lingard Private Hospital.
The lesson?
Don't just buy for today. Buy for the lifestyle, location and long-term potential of the property.
Sometimes the home that seems "not quite right" at first glance can end up being the smartest purchase of all.
Check out the photos and keep an open mind if you're planning your next sea change or downsizing move.
