The demand for a three-bedroom home is still a strong one but many homebuyers are now drawn to two-bedroom dwellings thanks to changing lifestyles that rethink the traditional way we look at housing.

There are plenty of reasons that go into deciding if you require a two- or three-bedroom residence and often affordability, convenience and ease-of-use factors play a big part. Where you are in the life cycle might be a first question you want to ask yourself. Do you have young children who will inevitably outgrow the coziness of sharing a bedroom at some point? Are you an empty nester looking to take long and expensive trips so less house means fewer headaches and expenses? Maybe you are just starting out so budgeting and economies of scale are top of mind. A smaller home would definitely fit the bill.

It’s true that three-bedroom homes are the most desired, according to the National Association of Realtors. Actually, it’s three bedroom homes with two-bathroom dwellings that appeal to the largest numbers, which are families with one or two kids still living at home.

So it’s a pretty safe bet that if your home comprises two bedrooms only it won’t be highly sought after by couples looking to start a family or those who already have children. That third bedroom harbors a lot of power within our mindset. Often it holds hopes and dreams to act as a den or office, as a guest room for visiting family members and friends or perhaps as a play room for little ones.

But homebuyers come in all shapes, sizes and preferences. And plenty are not looking to add to our population numbers. Often they are professionals who have disposable income thanks to the absence of children and frequently they are looking for features that offer luxury and comfort.

Transforming that unused third bedroom into a grand spa bathroom complete with steam shower, heated floor, oversized tub and dressing space might be just the answer for childless buyers looking for a little self indulgence.

Not only will you get to enjoy the comfort of a luxury bathroom while living there, but when the time comes to sell, there will be plenty interested buyers who feel the same way.

There’s no need to let the myth of having a third bedroom get in your way, especially if you have upscale features that make up for the difference.

There’s no time like the present to be an advocate for living in smaller spaces.

Minimalism is trending like never before and home de-cluttering organizers are the balm for our over- consumerized soul. Look at the popularity of Marie Kondo, the Japanese organizing guru whose books have sold millions around the world and who has a popular Netflix series about how to live better with less.

At some point in our lives, we will likely need to live in spaces that are smaller than what we’re accustomed to. Maybe you’re faced with downsizing and selling your four-bedroom for a two-bedroom condo? Perhaps you’re a single professional looking to get into the real estate market? Or maybe you’ve experienced job loss and a reduction in income that necessitates a less costly living space? Change is seldom easy so let’s consider ways to make the transition a bit smoother:

Keep it tidy:

Smaller spaces get dirty and cluttered much more quickly than bigger spaces. Spend time thinking about ways to organize your new home so that it looks comfy without being messy. Everything should have a home, preferably out of sight, though this isn’t always possible. Consider your walls as they often don’t get used enough for storage. Use pegboards, shelving and the many customizable racks for storage as well as display purposes.

Lighten up:

Always been a fan of furniture that is big, heavy and weighty-looking? Time to change it up. Overstuffed sofas and chairs will overpower your space, making your lay-out look cramped and overwhelming. Go for lighter styles such as coffee tables and chairs that show off their legs. That results in the illusion of more space as the look is more orderly and light. Consider multi-functional furniture, a coffee table that doubles as a dining table and wheels on tables and seating so they can be easily moved out of the way. And watch what colours you choose as a lot of dark shades may also work to overpower your space. Same goes for window coverings and paint.

Change the scenery:

You may experience cabin fever in your new smaller digs. Find places outside your home that offer you comfort, joy, amusement and peace. Is that favourite coffee shop with the Zen vibe a place you like to linger and people watch? Do you get a kick from observing the fast twists and turns performed at your local skateboard park? Or maybe your thing is a comfy chair and the kind of quiet and solitude that befits your local library?

Sources: www.apartmenttherapy.com, www.bhg.com, www.freshhome.com