Some of our favourite recent clients have been those who have been downsizing from their current home to a smaller, more manageable home or condo, a family suite in a family member’s home or to a retirement residence. We love taking the time to guide these clients through this big life transition and help them to start this new chapter in their lives.
Many of these clients have been in their homes for decades and some as long as half a century. These clients endear themselves to us with their stories about how the neighbourhoods have changed, the neighbours who have come and gone, the home renovations they have undertaken and the families they have raised within the walls of these homes. We are honoured and grateful to take this journey with them and consider it a privilege to play a part in this transition.
Some of these clients are in their 70’s, their children have long left home and they are finding that they either don’t want to or can’t manage the responsibilities of maintaining a house any longer. These clients require special attention because most have not moved for many years, they often have accumulated decades worth of belongings that need to be sorted and organized, and it is common for them to feel overwhelmed by the process and all the decisions that need to be made.
However, not everyone considers downsizing later in life, some other motivating factors can be a need to reduce household expenses or pursue a simpler lifestyle, a divorce, an empty nest or the desire to reduce responsibilities in order to enjoy more financial freedom and travel. Regardless of the reason or motivation, the process is similar for everyone and requires compassion, sensitivity and proactive planning.
We take a very thoughtful approach to the downsizing process and are sensitive to the many emotional components that this transition can trigger. Dealing with items belonging to family members who have passed away, engaging grown children in the downsizing process, getting rid of sentimental items that no longer fit or serve and dealing with estates or the division of assets are just a few of the unique obstacles that we need to consider and navigate. With these things in mind, we often suggest beginning this process far in advance of the proposed move in order to avoid undue stress and overwhelm. We sit down with our clients and map out a detailed plan of how to get them from where they are to where they want to go, and implement a timeline and provide resources to help get them there.
You can find more details about how we approach the downsizing process on our downsizing services page. If downsizing is something you are considering but don’t know where to start, we would be happy to sit down with you and chat through your options. With a good plan and an experienced team behind you, downsizing doesn’t have to be overwhelming and can open you up to a world of possibilities!
