Downsizing or buying a small first home may make you feel squeezed, but follow these tips, and you’ll soon appreciate what a treasure your petite new home is.

Go for quality. A smaller home in a sought-after neighborhood that’s closer to the jobs, schools, and amenities you need is better than a long commute for a more spacious home. Instead, choose fine furniture and accessories that make a statement about who you are.

Minimize clutter. Nothing makes a space feel cramped like overcrowding. If you’re sidestepping furniture, sports equipment or clothes on the floor, it’s time to declutter.

Be clever. Decorating a small space can be a lot of fun if you think in terms of furniture doing double duty. Ottomans can triple up as a footrest, coffee table or extra seating. Nesting tables can provide extra tabletop space when needed and store compactly.

Let the light in. Bright spaces look larger than dark spaces. Light cheerful colors on walls and in your décor can expand any room. Reduce the need for bulky lamps and tables by installing sconces and recessed lighting.

The trick is having what you want but recognizing that there’s no need for extras or excess. 

Learning about an upcoming move to a new home can upset your teen’s sense of balance. Keep drama to a minimum by listening to their concerns, finding solutions together and inviting them to join in the process.

Let them know early. Let your family know a move is coming before you put your home up for sale. Teens will be upset by leaving friends, activities and familiar surroundings, so give them time to get used to the idea.

Let them vent.  Teens can feel powerless, so let them voice their feelings of anger, fears and sadness. Agree that it’s going to be challenging for everyone in the household, and that you’ll do your best to help them make the transition as easily as possible.

Let them make choices. Shop for homes online with your teen. Your Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network professional’s company website has homes for sale, school and neighborhood information, and interesting statistics about your new area. Find amenities with Waze or Google Maps on your laptop or phone.

Let them contribute. Take your teen to see the top three homes. Being able to choose a bedroom or have a vote in choosing which home will help them adjust.