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Stay up to date with the latest property news and market updates from Midhurst and the surrounding villages. Here you will find insights into local house prices, buyer demand and general trends affecting the local property market.
9th April 2026
Downsizing…
Thinking of downsizing in Midhurst… but not sure where to start?
You’re not alone.
Right now with Spring arriving, many people start to consider downsizing as the logical next step. Less maintenance. Lower bills. Releasing equity.
But in reality… it’s rarely that straightforward.
As a local agent in the Midhurst area for nearly forty years, I have dealt with hundreds of people who feel downsizing is the right thing to do, but find it very daunting to do so. In fact, I think it is the hardest move to make in life.
Here’s why –
1. There simply aren’t enough suitable homes
Across the Midhurst & Petworth areas, there is a shortage of age-appropriate housing, particularly bungalows and well-designed smaller homes.
Only a fraction of the homes needed for older buyers are being built each year
Many buyers want “smaller but not compromised” homes – space, parking, location still matter
Locally, this is even more pronounced in desirable areas like Midhurst where supply is tight
Result: People want to move… but can’t find the right property.
2. The process feels too stressful and slow
Over 55% of people aged 65–74 say the moving process is the biggest barrier to downsizing.
Chains, delays, uncertainty—it can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve been in your home for decades.
3. Emotional attachment is huge
Your home isn’t just bricks and mortar.
It’s where families were raised, milestones happened, memories were built.
For many, this is one of the biggest reasons people stay put – even when the house no longer suits their needs.
4. Financial barriers can be off-putting
Stamp duty
Legal fees
Moving costs
These can make downsizing feel like you’re paying to move backwards—even if the long-term benefits are clear.
5. The surprising truth: many people want to downsize… but don’t
Around 25% of over-65s would like to downsize but feel unable to
Millions are effectively “stuck” in homes that no longer suit their lifestyle
Why This Matters Locally (Midhurst & Surrounding Villages)
In areas like Midhurst:
Larger family homes are often under-occupied
Demand from growing families remains strong
Downsizing could unlock significant movement in the local market
But without the right support and strategy, many homeowners simply stay where they are.
How I Can Help You Downsize – The Right Way
As a TAUK Personal Agent, my role is not just to sell your home – it’s to manage the entire transition.
Here’s how I make downsizing achievable:
Strategic Planning (Before You Even Go to Market)
Honest advice on timing, pricing, and realistic options
Identifying suitable onward properties early
Access to the Right Buyers
Targeted marketing to proceedable buyers
Creating competition to maximise your sale price
Chain Management & Stress Reduction
Proactive communication throughout
Keeping everything moving to avoid delays
Tailored Approach
Understanding your personal situation (not just the property)
Helping you move when it feels right, not rushed
The Key Takeaway
Downsizing isn’t just a property decision – it’s a life decision.
And when done properly, it can unlock:
Financial freedom
A more manageable lifestyle
A home that works for the next chapter
Considering a Move?
If you’ve been thinking about downsizing but haven’t taken the next step, you’re not alone – and you’re not stuck.
Let’s have a straightforward conversation about your options.
Christian Budd
Personal Agent for TAUK