DownsizingTipsandMaximizingtheValueofYourHome.

By Stéfanie Cadou

As the population ages, there has been an enormous trend in downsizing to smaller homes, condos, or retirement residences. This winter has been particularly tough; many people have decided that enoughisenough.

"It can be challenging to leave the family home where countless memories were created. It's only humannaturetowanttostayaslongaspossible.

However, in the senior transition world, the most popular phrase I hear is, "I should have done this a couple of years ago." Many factors, such as mobility challenges, cognitive concerns, loneliness, safety,security,caregiverstress,orsimplytheburdenofhomeownership,cancomeintoplay.

Forthoseconsideringthistransition,hereareafewtipstohelpyoualongtheway.

DownsizingTips

Start Early: It is never too soon to start removing the unnecessary. We should go through our closets and cupboardstwiceayeartoeradicateaccumulation.

One Room at a Time: Start with the basement or guest room. Proceedingoneroomatatimewillpreventchaos.

The 6-month rule: states that what you haven't used in 6 months is probably unnecessary. Consider extra bedding, cutlery,anddishes.

Quality over quantity: Establish space in your new living quarters and stick to the quality items that mean the most. If you're unsure what to keep, ask for an objective opinionfromsomeoneclosetoyou.

WhereCanItAllGo? Sellwhatcanbesold. Give heirloomstofamilyandfriendsanddonatetocharities. Thelaststepistothrowitout.

MaximizingtheValueofYourHome

Clean: Acleanhousetranslatesintodollars. Beawarethatbuyerstoucheverything!

Neutralize: Neutral colours are very appealing to buyers. Depersonalizing your home allows buyerstovisualizetheirbelongingsinit.Turnyourhomebackintoahouse.LessisMore.

Repair: You do not need to renovate your house to sell it. However, good maintenance is crucial. A leaking roof is problematic and needs to be repaired. A foundation crack must be addressed to prevent deterioration and a lower selling price. Yet, a new kitchen will not guarantee a higher sellingprice.

Downsizing Tips and Maximizing the Value of Your Home con`t

Curb Appeal: Mow the lawn and clean the front porch, front door, and windows. Nobody enjoys walking through spider webs before entering a house.

The 5 Senses: Appeal to the five senses of potential buyers:

Smell: Open the windows a few minutes before a showing. Letthefreshairin!

Sight: Open the blinds and curtains, wash the windows, and turn on the lights. We all love a brighthome.

Touch: Clean all surfaces, paying particular attention to countertops, faucets, door handles, andlightswitches.

Hearing: You may want to play soft music during the showing. Regrettably, a hockey game on TV is notrecommended.

Taste:Finally,yourbrokermaybringdrinksand bitesforpotentialbuyersatOpenHouses, addingtothe"WelcometoyourNewHome" experience.

Downsizing can be challenging and emotional. It can be daunting sometimes, but embrace the process as you venture into this new life transition. Speak to friends and loved ones who have already done it. You would be amazed at how many people have a smile on their faces when they talkabouttheirnew"home."

Formoreinformation,pleaseemailusatstefanie.cadou@royallepage.caorcallusat 514-885-3524andaskforStéfanieCadou.