Is Downsizing Your Best Move?

Deciding if it is time for you and your family to downsize is not always a clear choice.

There are factors to consider that might push you to take the leap or stay put for a while longer. Whether you are thinking you may want to stay put or considering it’s time to start purging those possessions so you can downsize, we are here to walk you through this process. We are realtors in the Fraser Valley and based in Chilliwack, BC who specialize in making these transitions easier for you so that you can start to enjoy the things that matter most in life. 

Here are some questions to ponder to help make your decision a little easier.

1. How are you using your current space?

Do you or your family members feel like they have adequate space in your current home OR do you find that you have rooms that aren’t being used or are you tired of paying property taxes on more home than you need? Check for the downsize column!

2. Have you considered the maintenance costs?

Do you love to spend all of your time, energy and money on the maintenance of your home OR do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed with the upkeep of cleaning, lawn care and general maintenance issues that come with owning a home? If you are ready to cross maintenance off your to-do list, perhaps you are ready to downsize to save money and have a more manageable property or one where the HOA handles part of the job.

3. What are your outdoor space needs?

Do you still have pets and children/grandchildren that need lots of outdoor space OR are you ready to give up having a yard or garden to downsize to a maintenance-free space? The size of the house is one thing, but the property is important also.

4. Have you looked to the future?

What do you expect your needs to be in the next five, ten, or twenty years? Do you want a large home where your children and grandchildren will come for vacations and holidays OR will you be spending those times at their homes? Will you want to entertain groups of friends, or do you foresee going out for your entertainment or wishing to travel more? What will happen if you suddenly find yourself on your own; will you want to stay at the home?

5. Do the financial implications add up in your favour?

Can you handle the higher costs involved with owning a larger home, OR are you ready to cut costs with downsize to save you more money each month? Consider where you stand on your current mortgage. Are you alright to keep paying a mortgage at this point in your life, or are you in a position to sell and finally have that financial freedom you have dreamed about?  

6. Is it the right market to downsize?

A Seller’s market is hot for those looking to sell a larger home and downsize. Even if we find ourselves in a Buyer’s market consider this, if you have loved and enjoyed your home for the years that you have lived there, then buyers will always be eager to take your place.  

If you have found yourself answering yes to some or even all of these questions then there is a strong chance that you are on the way or even ready right now to downsize your home.  This isn’t meant to be a scary process it’s quite exciting, it’s the beginning of a new chapter in your life and we would be honoured to be the conduit to make this happen. 

As your agents we begin with sitting down with our clients and determine a plan to make the downsizing process as smooth as possible. With our personalized checklist system and list of helpful local Chilliwack contacts and resources that can assist you with all the different levels of service you may need, we have you covered. If you would like to know about how we can help you prepare to list your home we would love to hear from you. Let’s work together to ensure your next move is the right one.

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https://www.rebgv.org/content/rebgv-org/buyers-and-sellers/DownsizingMyProperty.html