I wouldn't consider myself a minimalist (I do like my "stuff"), but I definitely prefer a streamlined life for the reasons you mentioned. Everything in my house has a place and if it doesn't, I don't need it. My husband and I try hard to follow the "one in, one out" rule. We're preparing for a cross-country move, so it's been a great opportunity for me to really evaluate what I own and whether it's enhancing my life or just taking up space. I've gotten rid of a lot!
As I said, I do like my stuff. But, it IS just stuff. And I have yet to get rid of something that I later regretted, so I think that's a good sign