To live more simply is to live more purposefully and with a minimum of needless distractions.

 -Duane Elgin

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• Don't buy or buy a larger home than you actually need. Keep the number of rooms down to minimize clutter, unused space, cleaning, maintenance, and costs.

In dwelling, live close to the ground.  In thinking, keep to the simple.  In conflict, be fair and generous.  In governing, don't try to control.  In work, do what you enjoy.  In family life, be completely present.
-Lao Tzu

• Declutter. The less you own, the less you have to clean, maintain, and worry about.

• Make your whole house a sanctuary, not just one room. Doing this will create an inviting, relaxing retreat. To determine if each room is a sanctuary, ask yourself, 'Is this a room I feel comfortable, serene, and happy to be in for a long period of time?'. If not, then it needs some SLC (Sanctuary Loving Care) to transform it.

• Roll up your sleeves and learn to be a do-it-yourselfer. Home stores, libraries, and friends are valuable resources to learn the how-tos in home care. You'll save money and feel a certain amount of pride in seeing the results of your new skills.

• Forgo high maintenance fixtures in the house. For example opt for hardwood, laminate, or painted floors. They are easier to clean and maintain and last a lot longer than carpeting, especially if you have pets or children.