As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) guiding older adults navigate the often overwhelming process of downsizing or as I prefer to say, “ rightsizing,” is far more than just a transaction. It’s deeply personal, emotional, and sometimes, a bit scary. It doesn’t have to be as difficult as many might imagine, especially when you have someone by your side who understands your needs, listens, and offers support every step of the way. I’ve have the privilege of walking alongside many wonderful people through this process, and one recent journey stands out—N and P.
I first met N and P at an open house I was hosting for clients who were selling their home. They were longtime neighbours of my clients. We briefly discussed downsizing and how major a life change it can be, and that the decision to move, or not, is a huge decision to make and for some a significant hurdle to tackle. After some light-hearted conversations and a few chuckles, we agreed to meet at their home to continue the conversation.
Our meeting at their home was excellent. As we talked, I could sense they were grappling with the idea of leaving a house they had lived in for decades, filled with memories and comfort. Yet they knew making a proactive decision to move to a more user friendly home without stairs, easy access and walkability was being proactive instead of possibly down the road, mandatory. As I asked questions to understand their concerns better, it became clear that this wasn’t just about finding a new place to live. It was about leaving behind a life they had known for decades.
At one point, I paused, sensing the depth of their emotions, and asked softly, “You don’t want to sell, move… you love your house, don’t you?” I assured them, there was no need to rush, this is a process. True to my approach, I didn’t rush in with offers or suggestions. Instead, I listened. I simply gave them space to share their thoughts, any concerns and answer their questions. It was evident they loved their home and the decision to move would take time. I wanted to better understand their needs and provide them with information about the housing market, but also to offer reassurance that I was there to help in whatever way they needed and invited them to a free seminar on downsizing that might be of value and shed some light on the topic, which they attended and I believe did shed some light.
Over the year, I worked closely with N and P, guiding them at their pace. We began by tackling the daunting task of decluttering and paring down their belongings, which they preferred to do on their own instead of hiring someone, which is an option as well. Paring down belongings is often one of the most difficult steps for anyone, but especially for those who’ve lived in their homes for many years.
The goal wasn’t to rush them through any process, yet to share with them information, options and resources. We discussed options, weighed the pros and cons of selling first versus buying first, and I explained the potential impacts of each decision. Ultimately, they chose to buy first, then sell—an option that felt right for them. It was their decision. Together we found their new home! The home is in the same neighbourhood, walking distance to their favourite coffee shop, their library, and the familiar mountain views. It was a home they could grow into in this next chapter of their lives, one that offered more accessibility and comfort. I prepared their home to sell including staging and hosting open houses and of course selling the home! A happy young family is grateful for their new home and backyard access to a park! For me there are few things more rewarding than helping people make one of the most important decisions of their lives—especially when it’s done with patience, empathy, and trust.
I received a lovely Google Review from N and P. Reading their words of appreciation was a heartfelt reminder of why I do what I do. Their kind review spoke of how grateful they were for my support, my patience, and my dedication to making their rightsizing journey as smooth as possible. It was an emotional reminder of how deeply rewarding it is to be a trusted guide for others during such a significant transition.
Rightsizing is a journey and isn’t just about finding a new home—it’s about helping people navigate change in a way that honours their needs, their emotions, and their future. It’s about understanding that this process is not just transactional, but deeply personal.
For N and P, the journey was one that ultimately led them to a new chapter of life, in a home that fit their needs and gave them peace of mind. It wasn’t always easy, but together, we made it easier. They made decisions on their terms and timeline not anyone else’s.
If you or someone you know is considering rightsizing, please reach out. I’d be honoured to help guide you, just as I did with N and P—one step at a time, with care, empathy, and the goal of selling the home for top dollar and finding the right home for the next phase of life.