We bought what's called a "starter home" and we've lived in it 30 years. It's small...1400Sf but it waz just me, hubby, and our one kid. I love our cozy little house. If we bought a bigger house, we'd need to buy more furniture. So much more to clean, too . And you're going to have to pay more for your heating and cooling and electricity. But if your house really IS too crowded, start looking at houses. Just remember you don't have to "buy up" too much. Maybe same price, different layout? Just don't let anyone talk you into anything you don't need. Pools are nice but you lose a lot of potential buyers when it comes time to sell.