DOWNSIZING

Make room for what matters next.

Downsizing is not always about having less. It may mean easier upkeep, less space to manage, more flexibility or simply a home that fits the next chapter better.

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A GOOD PLACE TO BEGIN

Start with what matters most to you.

There is no one-size-fits-all reason to move. The right decision begins with understanding why you are considering a change—and what you would gain from it.

Clarify your next chapter
Know your equity and costs
Plan a manageable move
YOUR ROADMAP

A clearer path, one step at a time.

Use these starting points to organize your questions and next decisions before taking action.

STEP 01

Decide what you want to change

Is the goal fewer stairs, less yardwork, a different neighbourhood, easier travel or lower expenses? Make two lists: what you want to leave behind and what you want to keep.

STEP 02

Understand what your home could sell for

An informed market evaluation helps you estimate sale proceeds after costs. That gives you a starting point for comparing condos, smaller houses, rental options or other living arrangements.

STEP 03

Compare your next-home options

Evaluate ownership and maintenance responsibilities, condo or life-lease structures where appropriate, accessibility, storage, monthly costs and how the home may serve you years from now.

STEP 04

Plan the move in stages

Think room by room rather than all at once. Discuss decluttering, what to do with cherished possessions, whether to buy or sell first, and how to coordinate possession and moving dates.

LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

A better-fit home is more than square footage

A few practical considerations can make a big difference when you're planning your next step.

Lifestyle

Imagine how you want an ordinary week to feel. What would you do with the time or energy currently spent maintaining your property?

Financial clarity

Compare net sale proceeds, purchase or rental costs, condo fees, utilities and future maintenance—not just the new home’s asking price.

Timing

The most comfortable path is usually the one that leaves room for thoughtful decisions, practical preparation and a realistic backup plan.

FREE DOWNLOADABLE RESOURCE

Take the next step with a guide you can keep.

Our downsizing resource brings the essentials together so you can refer back to them at your own pace.

  • Questions to clarify your reason for moving
  • How to evaluate your current home’s equity
  • Condo, smaller home, rental and other options
  • Questions to plan the sale-and-purchase timeline
  • Practical steps to prepare for a simpler move

Get your free Downsizing guide

Enter your details to request your guide. No obligation and no pressure.

Your information is handled according to our privacy policy. Requesting a guide is not a commitment to buy or sell.

COMMON QUESTIONS

A few answers before you begin.

Should I buy my next home before selling my current one?

It depends on your financial situation, the current market and your comfort with risk. There are several ways to coordinate a move; discuss the financing implications before committing.

Is a condo always cheaper than a house?

No. Consider condo fees, taxes, utilities, insurance, special assessments and the purchase price together. A smaller home may simplify maintenance without automatically reducing every cost.

How early should I start downsizing?

Early planning gives you more control over sorting belongings, estimating equity and evaluating where you would like to live. You can begin the conversation long before you are ready to list.

Life-lease and condominium arrangements have different financial and legal structures. Review agreements and costs carefully with appropriate advisers.

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