To stay or to downsize? That is the big question.

Making a move to the right size home with the right size mortgage not only simplifies your life, it also frees up money, time and other resources to enjoy the lifestyle you want. Although finances are just one factor in your decision to downsize, adding up the potential savings will help you visualize your future.

Start by calculating your mortgage payment in a new, more affordable home to determine how much money you'll save each month.

Also total:

• reduced real estate taxes
• lower utility bills, thanks to a smaller home using new, more energy-efficient products (Homebuilders can give you average utility costs for their communities.)
• reduced homeowner's insurance
• reduced maintenance costs (Compare association fees in a townhome or active adult community with the costs of doing your own maintenance.)

How does it add up? How would it feel to save that much money each month? What could you spend it on instead? The greatest calculation of all is determining the cost to your health and happiness living in a home that is consuming the one resource you can't ever get more of—your time. Live in a home that fits the lifestyle you want rather than building your lifestyle around your house.