<prompt> Human: Looking at 2 houses, not having kids for 2-3 years:125k - 1400sq ft - would work for 5-6 years, could afford 10 down and 15 year no PMI mortgage190k - 2000sq ft - short sale, agent says worth 145k, big enough could spend 10-15 years in, would have PMI even if it sells for 145kIts a small housing market and the 125k is in incredible shape, most small houses here are old and run down. By the time we get an answer on if the short sale answer is accepted the 125k house will be gone. Considering the 125k because its cheaper now, no PMI, smaller cheaper utilities, taxes are about 1500yr less, insurance would be less, and easier to maintain. Plus who knows if the bank would even accept 145k on a short sale? Cheaper now also means we can invest more in retirement plans for the next 5 years. If we buy the bigger house, PMI, utilities, taxes, insurance, and more will raise monthly expenses. Would the cost of selling obliterate those savings though? Wed lose equity in the house to cover selling costs, but our retirement plans would be better off.  <response>: I come from a family of 9 kids, 2 adults. All kids 2 years apart. We started with a 1400 square foot house. Then we built onto it, and converted the garage as kids got older. You dont necessarily -need- the larger homes. In fact, boys can share bedrooms with boys--and girls can share bedrooms with girls if necessary.Smaller house is a no-brainer. By the time you need a bigger house room sharing gets more difficult once you hit 12 the smaller home will be all but paid off. You could then slap down a nice fat chunk of change for something -really- nice 