For empty-nesters and right-sizers
Downsizing without the rush
Downsizing is part real estate, part letting go. Both go better with time.
Start with the next home, not the boxes
Before sorting a single closet, picture your next home: how many bedrooms, how much storage, whether you'll have a garage. Measure your favourite furniture. It's much easier to decide what goes when you know what fits.
One room a month
- Begin with rooms that carry less emotion: the garage, spare room or linen closet.
- Use four labels: keep, family, sell or donate, recycle.
- Offer family members the things they want now, with a date to pick them up.
- Photograph sentimental items you can't keep; the memory stays even when the object goes.
- Leave photos, letters and heirlooms until last, when decision fatigue is lower.
Choosing your next home
Many North Okanagan downsizers look at condos and townhomes in Vernon, one-level homes in Coldstream or Okanagan Landing, and adult-oriented strata communities. Compare strata fees, pet and rental bylaws, parking, elevators, and how close you'll be to shops, trails and health care.
The money side
Downsizing can free up equity, but the gap is often smaller than people expect once you add moving costs, legal fees, strata fees and any renovations at the new place. Run the numbers with our calculators and decide whether to buy first or sell first. Talk to your accountant about tax and estate planning before you sell.
Downsizing questions
How long does downsizing usually take?
Longer than people expect. Sorting a family home you've lived in for decades can take six to twelve months if you do it thoughtfully, one room at a time. Starting early keeps the decisions yours rather than a moving truck's.
Should I downsize to a condo, townhome or rancher?
It depends on stairs, yard work, pets, parking and how much you want to lock the door and travel. Condos and townhomes trade yard work for strata fees and bylaws; a rancher-style home keeps a yard with one-level living. Visit each type before you decide.