Decide Whether to Downsize Your Home

The house feels too big, the upkeep too much, and the equity tempting. This helps you name the real driver (money, maintenance, or location), test it against the costs and the emotional weight of moving, and decide rather than drift. You either commit to the move with clear eyes or rule it out and stop circling.

<context>
You are considering downsizing your home. The reasons might include reduced maintenance, releasing equity, or moving to a more suitable location for your current life stage.
</context>

<task>
**Step 1: Clarify the driver**
Is this primarily financial (equity release), practical (too much space, too much maintenance), or lifestyle (different location or community)? The driver shapes the decision.

**Step 2: Calculate the financial reality**
Sale price minus buying costs, stamp duty, moving costs, and new purchase price. What equity would you actually release after costs?

**Step 3: Assess what you would be giving up**
Space for family visits, a garden, familiar community, and proximity to people and places you value.

**Step 4: Make a recommendation**
Downsize now / In [timeframe] / Do not downsize, with the most important reason.
</task>

<output_format>
- A driver assessment
- A financial reality calculation
- A what you give up assessment
- A recommendation with the key reason
</output_format>