
What They Wish They Knew Before Downsizing: Lessons from Recent Movers
2025-06-01
Author: Sophie
In 2015, Michelle Thorne found herself alone in a spacious four-bedroom house in Barrie, Ontario, after her adult children moved out. Feeling overwhelmed by the space, she decided to make a change and downsized to a cozy three-bedroom townhouse closer to shops and services, thinking it would be perfect for her retirement.
However, upon moving in, she quickly realized the drawbacks. "I longed for the tranquil atmosphere of my old neighborhood," she admitted. The bustling environment of her new home was a stark contrast to the peaceful nature she once enjoyed. Privacy was a significant issue too; her new garage was too small, and barbecuing required hassle as she had to drag her grill to a shared driveway.
The Downsizing Dilemma: Is It Worth It?
Downsizing has become increasingly popular among homeowners looking to streamline their lives and save money, particularly after children have moved out. A recent survey from Wahi revealed that a striking 37 percent of sellers cited downsizing as their primary reason for selling. The trend is especially seen in Canadians aged 55 and older, with 69 percent opting for smaller living spaces.
But is moving to a downsized property truly beneficial? A 2022 survey by HomeEquity Bank found that many respondents—41 percent, in fact—were unaware of the actual cost implications of downsizing.
Uncovering Hidden Costs and Emotional Attachments
Toronto realtor Jacqueline Watson notes that many clients rush into downsizing without truly understanding the expenses involved. She highlights overlooked factors, like potential mortgage penalties, emotional attachments to belongings, and costs related to storage or land transfer taxes. For seniors, she emphasizes budgeting for accessibility renovations, ensuring the home remains functional as they age.
Real Stories of Downsizing Trials and Triumphs
Danielle Mah, an educational assistant, and YouTube minimalist, made a significant lifestyle switch in 2021, moving from a 2,000-square-foot house in Calgary to a more manageable townhouse in Chilliwack, British Columbia. Their motivation stemmed from skyrocketing utility costs.
Despite decluttering and downsizing her collection of plants, the reality of fitting into a smaller space hit hard. "I ended up keeping only 50 of my 200 houseplants due to logistical issues," she shared. Instead of paying for storage, she opted to give away unneeded items. Her advice for those contemplating similar moves? Gradually declutter and embrace minimalism.
The Entertaining Challenge of Downsizing
Claudia Espindola faced her own downsizing trials when she transitioned from a three-bedroom townhouse in the Greater Toronto Area to a compact two-bedroom condo in Guelph after her job became remote. "The most significant challenge was the lack of space for entertaining guests," she explained. While she could comfortably accommodate two visitors at a time, hosting larger gatherings meant navigating through the inconvenience of collapsible tables and chairs.
With every use of the communal party room incurring a $100 fee, she found herself searching for a larger home that would better accommodate her entertaining needs.
Michelle's Second Chance: Making the Right Move
The lessons from Ms. Thorne's first downsizing experience informed her next big move in 2017. She opted for a two-bedroom bungalow set in a serene, park-like area close to the waterfront. The beauty of nature outweighed the extra effort required for maintenance and lawn care.
Now retired, she reflects on her previous choices with caution. She wishes she had prioritized her present needs instead of solely focusing on the future. "I was too fixated on retirement, thinking about what I might need later, instead of considering what I truly needed now," she expressed.
Wise Words from a Downsizing Veteran
Settled into her new home, Ms. Thorne advises others evaluating downsizing to weigh their true priorities carefully. It’s not just about finances or lifestyle; both aspects are deeply intertwined. She concludes, "You may not fully grasp how much certain aspects of your life mean to you until you no longer have them."