What size house after divorce and empty nest

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Would you buy a 2 bed or a 3 bed semi if you are living alone for the first time in your 50s after recent empty nest and divorce?

The thing I am finding is that the 3 bed semi properties are not that much more in price than the 2 (double) beds and would be affordable.

I have 1 dc still at uni so they might be back for a bit after uni. They dont tend to come home much in the holidays because they work in their uni town.

I think a 3 bed might be sensible but I am a bit concerned that rattling around in a 3 bed when its only me living there might feel even more lonely. I dont like the idea of 2 bedrooms sitting there empty. Does this sound nuts and will I get used to it? I am not talking big places. Maybe 1000sq ft max for a 3 bed and 750sq ft for a 2 bed.

I almost crave a little nest that doesnt feel too big or overwhelming but I am worried I will regret that decision when it comes to dc coming to stay and grandkids etc in future.

The council tax difference wont be much but I guess heating a 3 bed and property upkeep will be a bit more depending on the house.

I might just rent initially so i dont rush into a decision. Just wondering what others have done in this situation. I dont want to make a mistake on this.

I bought a three bed semi but in reality it is a two bed as the third room is so small and I needed a shelving unit. We make it work when my three kids come to stay but I wish I'd had a bit more room.

How will you be financially? A big advantage of an extra room is you could get a lodger at least temporarily and still have a space for dc’s occasional visit. There’s a tax free allowance and it’s a good way to increase pension contributions

Yes i have considered the lodger idea for in the future but decided I dont want anyone else in my home! I think i have just spent far too much time living with someone I didnt want to. The tax benefits are great and its a fantastic idea for some people but I dont think its for me. Its a good suggestion though.

Go with your gut feeling OP. It’s expensive where I am and I plan to get a 2 bedroom place. I’m trying to be more practical with my finances. You say the council tax is similar but even £20/30 a month mounts up over the years. Similar for energy bills - it’s difficult when you’re covering costs on your own, so make life as easy as possible for yourself.

Put the ‘savings’ in a separate account and use that for family treats or add extra into your pension. You could buy a comfortable sofa bed for family staying.

If the one you’ve seen isn’t suitable I think renting is a good option while you view and also puts you in a good position as a buyer. Good luck!

As it’s affordable get the three-bedroom house because there’s a better chance of you selling it at the price you want than there is compared to a two bedroom house.

You could have a Monday - Friday lodger, or you could advertise the room for the odd night or several on Airbnb.

The number of bedrooms would be way down my priority list of requirements. I’d be looking for location first of all, quiet with some shops/pub etc in walking distance and ideally on a bus or other public transport route. Bedroom facing east for morning sun and livingroom south/west facing. Spacious downstairs, good shower and a wc downstairs

If it ticked all those boxes, I’d start to consider how many bedrooms I’d prefer. Good luck.