Is It Time to Downsize or Upsize?
Home is where life happens, but what happens when your home doesn’t quite fit your life anymore? For many Canadians, that moment of reflection is now—37% are considering downsizing, while 25% are looking to upsize. Whether your home feels too big, too small, or just not quite right, it might be time to think about a change.
Here’s how to decide if it’s time to make a move and some ideas for finding the perfect next step.
When Your Home Feels Too Big: Is It Time to Downsize?
Does your home feel like more of a chore than a joy these days? Maybe your weekends are spent mowing a lawn you no longer care about or stressing over the next big roof repair. Perhaps the kids have moved out, and you’re wandering through empty rooms that now feel more like a museum than a home.
What would life look like if you could trade all that upkeep for more time and money to visit family, travel the world, or finally master that pottery wheel? Downsizing isn’t just about moving into a smaller space—it’s about creating more freedom for the things that matter most.
Options for downsizing include:
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Think backyard cottages or cozy suites. Perfect for those who want compact, efficient living.
- Condos or Townhouses: With less maintenance and often great amenities, this is an ideal option for people who still want a sense of community.
- Age 55+ Communities: These neighborhoods are designed with ease and social connection in mind—plus, you’ll likely never have to shovel snow again.
- Shared Living Options: Co-living with family or friends can bring financial and emotional benefits, turning a house into a true home.
When Your Home Feels Too Small: Is It Time to Upsize?
On the flip side, sometimes a home that once felt perfect starts bursting at the seams. Maybe your family has grown—kids sharing a room that feels smaller by the day—or your lifestyle has evolved, and you need space for a home office, a workout area, or that dreamy walk-in closet.
Upsizing is about creating room for life to expand, whether it’s for practical needs or pure joy.
Options for upsizing include:
- Larger Condos or Townhouses: Get more space without giving up the convenience of urban living.
- New Construction Homes: Many modern builds include open layouts, energy efficiency, and the latest design trends.
- Existing Homes for Sale: There’s charm in finding a pre-loved home with character in an established neighborhood.
- Home Additions: Love your location but not your layout? Adding a room or expanding your space could be the solution.
How to Take the Next Step
Making the decision to move can feel daunting, but with a bit of planning, you can approach it with confidence. Here’s how to start:
- Talk to People Already Living in Your Desired Area: Want to know what it’s really like to live in that trendy downtown neighbourhood or peaceful suburban enclave? Ask the people who already call it home. They’ll give you a real sense of the vibe and any hidden gems (or red flags) you should know about.
- Do Your Homework: Dive into online resources, read reviews, and explore city or town websites. Social media can also be a goldmine for community insights—join local groups or forums to learn about schools, amenities, and events.
- Make a List of Priorities: Break it down into:
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- Need-to-haves: Essential features like a certain number of bedrooms or proximity to work.
- Nice-to-haves: Things like a modern kitchen or a big backyard.
- Dealbreakers: Anything that’s a hard no, like being too far from family or located in a noisy area.
This exercise will help you compare communities and homes more effectively and focus on what truly matters.
The Time for Change is Now
For many of us, there comes a point when our home no longer fits the life we’re living. Whether you’re dreaming of less maintenance and more freedom or more space to grow and thrive, now is the perfect time to explore your options.
Ready to make a move? Let’s chat about your goals and what would make the perfect next step for you. From finding a new community to navigating the market, We can help you turn your vision into reality. Your dream home—big or small—is closer than you think.
