My parents have recently divorced and I chose to stay with dad. Our family home was quite big, with a yard, patio,… now my dad rents a studio - we have living room, kitchen, bedroom (1 room) + bathroom + balcony. I actually really love it, it’s very cozy, intimate, nicer location, easier to clean, less clutter…
1200 sf townhouse. I can clean it top to bottom under an hour. It takes 5 minutes to mow the lawn. Only time my electric bill tops $100 is August, and gas only in January. No one even thinks about you hosting family gatherings or parties. Don’t have to buy a monster TV so you can see it across the 20’ room.
I suppose, if you really like gardening, or hosting parties, then those could be negatives, but it seems like the main reason to have a big, fancy house is so other people know you can afford a big, fancy house. Personally, they make me uncomfortable, and I would hate to live in one, nevermind the maintenance.