How to know if it's time to move home.

As the colder months roll in, many of us spend more time indoors and that often leads to reflecting on whether our home still suits the way we live. Perhaps it once did, but life moves on, families grow, jobs change, and priorities shift. If you’ve been feeling a little unsettled or out of sync with your surroundings, it might be a sign that it’s time for a change.

Here are a few telltale signs it could be time to put your home on the market and start planning your next move in the new year.

1. You’re feeling cramped

Has your home started to feel smaller lately? Maybe the kids are taking up more space, or remote working means there are laptops and paperwork on every surface. If your rooms are bursting at the seams, upsizing could bring back that sense of calm and comfort.

2. The family has outgrown it

Family life evolves quickly. A house that once felt spacious might now struggle to accommodate everyone’s needs, whether that’s more bedrooms, a bigger kitchen, or simply space to escape for a moment’s peace.

3. The garden no longer works for you

Outdoor space is a huge selling point, but our relationship with it changes over time. Perhaps a once-loved large garden has become too much to maintain, or your growing family now needs more space to play. Either way, it might be time for a garden that suits your lifestyle today.

4. Parking has become a problem

If you find yourself parking at the other end of the street or constantly competing for a space, a home with a garage or private driveway could make everyday life far easier.

5. Your location no longer fits your lifestyle

Life changes, and so do our priorities. A new job might mean you need to be closer to a train station, or perhaps you’ve realised you’re not in the right school catchment for your children. Maybe you’ve added a dog to the family and would love easier access to countryside walks.

6. The family home feels too big

When children grow up and move out, it can leave parents feeling lost in a house that suddenly feels too big and too quiet. Downsizing can be a positive step, freeing up time, money, and energy to focus on what’s next.

If any of these sound familiar, you might be closer to your next move than you think.

At abbotFox, our property experts can help you understand your home’s current market value and guide you through every step of selling, from valuation to completion.

Thinking about a fresh start in 2026?

Book your free valuation today and find out what your home could be worth.