Best of the West: Lace Up Your Skates

Okay, I’ll admit it, I don’t love winter, but living in Toronto you really only have two choices, embrace it or complain about it. In the spirit of embracing the cold, this month’s Best of the West is about the best outdoor skating rinks in Toronto’s west end.

I find that if I do embrace winter (and dress warmly!), I actually end up enjoying myself. It’s just the getting out of the warm house that is the struggle! Skating really is such a great winter activity though, not only is it inexpensive but it’s also a fabulous way to spend time with the family or a group of friends. So, where are the best places in the west end to embrace the winter and lace up those skates?

High Park

There is a busy ice rink in the middle of High Park where you can take in the natural scenery and do a few laps around the rink. It is also a popular spot for pick-up games of shinny. The upside to our recent frigid weather (we’re talking to you Polar Vortex!), is that for the first time in a few years Grenadier Pond has frozen over and provides a lovely backdrop to take a few laps or play a little shinny.

The Bentway

I think our city gets high marks for this ingenious addition that was added in January 2018. It is a 220-metre figure eight that is located under the Gardiner Expressway on the lands of Fort York National Historic Site, running from just east of the Fort York Visitor Centre (250 Fort York Blvd) to Bastion St. Skate rentals are available and rentals are free on Thursdays, courtesy of Billy Bishop Airport. The rink is open from 5-9pm on weekdays and 12-9pm on weekends and starting January 6, enjoy free hot chocolate every Monday evening (5:00pm-8:30pm) thanks to the CityPlace Fort York BIA.

The Bentway, photo credit: @bbishopairport

rennie park

Located in Swansea, this popular west end destination has both a hockey rink and a skating trail. The skating trail is built around a tree and has no fences making it popular late at night, particularly with teenagers. The hockey rink has proper boards, a scoreboard and sound system. There's also a large change room and observation room.

dufferin grove park

Embrace the community spirit at these two side-by-side ice rinks, one dedicated to informal hockey games and one to leisurely skating. Skate rentals are also available on the cheap. Located on the east side of Dufferin, across from Dufferin Mall.

colonel sam smith park

It may be crowded, but it’s worth it! This figure eight trail provides an alternative to the typical rinks found in the city. It is located in south Etobicoke, at Kipling and Lakeshore, and has a picturesque trail, free parking and indoor change areas.

Colonel Sam Smith Skate Trail, photo credit: City of Toronto

trinity bellwoods park

A popular destination for shinny, this outdoor rink is located in Trinity Bellwoods Park, south of Dundas, on Gore Vale Avenue. This popular park has it all, including an artificial rink that attracts winter enthusiasts of all ages.

nathan phillips square

It may not be located in the west end, but we can’t talk about outdoor skating without mentioning the grand-daddy of them all, the beautiful rink at Nathan Phillips Square. It is totally worth tackling the crowds to take part in this very Toronto pastime. With the big Toronto sign in the background, it is a fabulous way to spend a winter afternoon or evening, and a great date night destination. It also features a snack bar, skate rentals, skating lessons and DJ skates.

So lace up those skates #westsiders and I hope to see you out there!

Wabi-Sabi: Embracing Imperfection

As a follow up to our post about Hygge, the Danish concept of creating joy and coziness in life's everyday moments, we wanted to talk about the Japanese philosophy of Wabi-Sabi and how it relates to interior design and everyday life.

At its core, Wabi-Sabi is the concept of accepting imperfection. Roughly translated, Wabi means rustic simplicity or understated elegance and Sabi means taking pleasure in the imperfect. It believes that beauty is imperfect, impermanent and incomplete. Its roots come from the Japanese Tea Ceremony, which is a ritual of purity and simplicity, in which the handmade bowls and utensils that are used are often irregularly shaped and worn due to use. These items are celebrated for their beauty, which comes from their deliberate imperfections and their emotional significance.

As recovering perfectionists (okay, we may be 'in recovery'), Kirsten and I are constantly reminding each other 'not to let the perfect be the enemy of the good'. This phrase has actually helped us immensely by giving us permission to put things out that may not be 'perfect' in our minds (whatever that might be!), but it moves the process along while allowing us to make improvements and tweaks over time, or sometimes just accepting it as it is.

This aesthetic is also making its way into home design, by embracing the lived-in and weathered. It is a move away from the impractical sleek images that we are bombarded with on social media, to an aesthetic that is more functional and livable.

It’s a long awaited invitation to stray from convention and expectation and instead celebrate individuality and comfort.

Dayna Isom Johnson, Canadian Living

It is also a celebration of sentimentality, embracing items whose beauty comes from their meaning rather than their austere beauty. This could mean a weathered armchair that was a family heirloom or a piece of ceramic whose beauty comes from its uniqueness and the story that it tells. It also encourages us to choose materials that weather beautifully over time such as wood, stone and metal and to choose colours that are a reflection of those seen in nature. In this way it very much aligns with the concepts behind Hygge, in the way that it promotes natural elements, colours and simplicity, and in its belief that every object in your home should be beautiful, useful or both.

medium.com

Wabi-Sabi is the antithesis to big box stores, fast fashion and mass consumption. At West Side Storeys we like to call ourselves the Mom & Pop shop in the big box world of real estate, and Wabi-Sabi embraces a lot of what we believe in and strive for - quality over quantity, true connection with our clients, relationship building, the importance of community, shopping local, waste reduction and an appreciation for the uniqueness and history of the older homes that we buy and sell.

In the end, there really is no such thing as perfection, whether it be in design, houses, or let's face it, life. So isn't the pursuit of perfection inevitably a path to unhappiness and dissatisfaction? Wabi-sabi shifts this focus to one of gratitude and appreciation for what we already have, rather than the pursuit of the next shiny new thing. This powerful shift in perspective can help us to feel more peaceful and content in the current moment and improve our quality of life.

Why not try to embrace imperfection and maybe even take it a step further and seek it out? A good exercise is to purposely choose items with obvious flaws and love and cherish them for those flaws, not despite of them. By embracing an attitude of Wabi-Sabi, you allow your home to become a true reflection of who you are and perhaps this shift in attitude will lead to an acceptance and celebration of the imperfection in all aspects of our lives....wrinkles and all ;)

Best of the West: Toronto Dog Parks

Here is a guide to the best places to take our furry friends off leash in Toronto's west end!

There are a lot of amazing things about having a dog, but one of my favourites is that they force you to get out and walk, regardless of the weather or your mood, you just have to get out there. So we have put together a list of the best places to take your pooch to get them (and you!) some exercise, and maybe a little social interaction along the way.

High Park

The big daddy of all the off leash parks, High Park has 8.5 acres of leash free trails as well as the crown jewel, Dog Hill. Located just east of the Grenadier Restaurant, and complete with picnic tables and doggy water fountains, Dog Hill is a dog lover's delight, with dogs of every size and breed cavorting around leash-free.

Sorauren Avenue Park

Located in Roncesvalles, at Sorauren and Fermanagh, this fenced-in leash free area can be enjoyed while you take in a soccer or baseball game on one of the adjacent sports fields. Added bonus, if you are there on a Monday be sure to pop into the Sorauren Farmer's Market, which takes place every Monday from 3-7pm.

Beresford Park

This small park tucked in the middle of Bloor West Village, at Beresford & Ardagh, has a dog park frequented by the many dog lovers in the area.

Baird Park

This park is located on the east side of Keele Street at Humberside, in between High Park and The Junction. Baird Park is a small park known for its active lawn bowling club, but also features a leash-free dog park which is well used by many local residents.

Coronation Park

If you want to enjoy the lake views while walking your dog, unfortunately you will have to keep them on a leash, but if you walk east along the Martin Goodman Trail to Fort York Blvd., you can lose the leash when you hit the large, fenced-in leash-free area at Coronation Park.

Sir Casimir Gzowski Park

This park, at the foot of Windermere, is also located off the Martin Goodman Trail, and allows you to go off leash while taking advantage of some spectacular lake views. If you continue on the trail heading west, you can also let your pooch run free at Humber Bay Park West (located at the bottom of Park Lawn Road).

Colonel Samuel Smith Park

In south Etobicoke, at Lake Shore & Kipling and just south of Humber College, lies the sprawling Colonel Samuel Smith Park. This lovely park, on the shores of Lake Ontario, features an outdoor skating track, playground and of course, a leash-free dog zone.

King's Mill Park

The trails along the Humber River, that run west from the Old Mill, are another wonderful place to go for a dog walk, but leashes are required here. However, you can start or end your stroll with a trip to the leash free area in nearby King's Mill Park, which is located on the banks of the Humber, just south of Bloor Street.

Trinity Bellwoods Park

A little further east, but well worth mentioning, is beautiful Trinity Bellwoods Park. Located on the north side of Queen Street at Strachan, this 38 acre park is an oasis in the middle of bustling West Queen West, and also allows you to let your best friend roam free in their designated off leash area.

Image Source

Is there something you would like featured in an upcoming "Best of the West' post, or something you think we missed? Feel free to drop us a line - we are always available to chat!

Home for the Holidays: A Realtor's Guide to Captivating Christmas Decor

'Tis the season to transform homes into winter wonderlands, and as a realtor, what better way to capture the festive spirit than by showcasing properties adorned with enchanting Christmas decorations? Creating a warm and inviting atmosphere can significantly enhance the appeal of a home, making potential buyers feel a connection that goes beyond brick and mortar. In this guide, we'll explore innovative and tasteful ways to decorate homes during the holiday season, turning them into irresistible destinations for prospective buyers. Even if you are not selling, here are some great ways to reflect the holiday season within your home.

Curb Appeal that Sparkles

The first impression is crucial, and during the holidays, curb appeal takes on a whole new meaning. Start by adorning the entrance with a festive wreath that complements the home's color scheme. Consider adding subtle outdoor lighting, such as string lights along the pathway or a beautifully illuminated tree near the entrance. This touch not only enhances the home's exterior but also creates a warm and inviting ambiance.

A Cozy Fireplace Setting

Highlight the heart of the home – the fireplace. Arrange plush holiday-themed throws and cushions on the furniture surrounding the fireplace, creating a cozy and inviting space. A well-decorated mantel adorned with stockings, candles, and garlands adds a touch of festive elegance, making potential buyers envision themselves celebrating the holidays in their new home.

Deck the Halls – Stylishly

Opt for a cohesive color scheme that complements the home's interior. Consider classic combinations like gold and red, or go for a more modern touch with silver and blue. Ensure that decorations complement the existing decor rather than overpowering it. Simple touches, such as a beautifully adorned staircase railing or strategically placed ornaments, can bring the holiday spirit without overwhelming the space.

Showcase outdoor entertaining spaces

If the property has outdoor entertaining spaces, don't forget to extend the festive decor outside. String lights, outdoor wreaths, and a well-lit patio can showcase the home's potential for hosting memorable holiday gatherings.

Bedrooms that Gleam with Holiday Magic

Create a serene and festive atmosphere in the bedrooms by incorporating holiday-themed bedding, pillows, and throws. A beautifully adorned Christmas tree in the master bedroom can add a touch of magic. Keep it tasteful and cohesive, ensuring that the decor enhances the room's ambiance without overwhelming the potential buyer's imagination.

Bathrooms with Seasonal Splendor

Even the bathrooms can benefit from a festive touch. Consider adding holiday-themed towels, candles, or a simple bowl of decorative ornaments. It's all about creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere throughout the entire home.

Kitchen Elegance

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, and during the holidays, it becomes a hub for festive gatherings. Consider adding subtle touches like holiday-themed dishware, a decorative centerpiece, or even a bowl of festive potpourri. If the home has an open layout, make sure the holiday decor seamlessly flows from the kitchen into the adjoining living spaces.

Create a Holiday Scent Experience

Engage the senses by incorporating subtle holiday scents throughout the home. Consider placing scented candles, potpourri, or even baking a batch of festive cookies before showings. The inviting aroma can evoke feelings of comfort and home.

In the competitive world of real estate, making a memorable impression is key, and during the holiday season, decorating with care and thoughtfulness can set your property apart. By creating a warm and festive atmosphere, you not only capture the spirit of the season but also help potential buyers envision themselves celebrating future holidays in their new home. So, deck the halls, light the candles, and let the magic of Christmas make your home irresistible for the holidays.

The Best of The Kingsway!

The Spa at the Old Mill

Summer is coming and it is the perfect time to get out and support our beloved local west end Toronto businesses, who suffered so much throughout the pandemic. To help you find the best places to eat, play and shop, we are updating our neighbourhood pages and will be highlighting a different west end Toronto area over the next few months. Next up The Kingsway!

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AVERAGE SALE PRICE (2022)

The Kingsway | $2.45M

TYPE OF HOMES

Detached Tudor style, mostly 2-storey (with some bungalows), set back from the street with private driveways & garages

Est.

1920’s

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fun fact

The Kingsway area was established by Robert Home Smith and the names of the streets (Queen Anne, Kingsgarden, King George) were chosen to emphasize English respectability & attract affluent buyers 

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the kingsway/sunnylea schools

Etobicoke Collegiate

Public | Sunnylea JS (JK-5), Park Lawn JMS (JK-8), Lambton Kingsway JMS (JK-8), Etobicoke Collegiate (9-12)

French | Rosethorn & Islington (immersion), Briarcrest & Second Street (extended), Richview CI (high school)

Catholic | Our Lady of Sorrows (JK-8), St. Mark (JK-8)

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THE kingsway/sunnylea NEIGHBOURHOOD

• restaurants, bars & shopping located along Bloor Street between Montgomery & Prince Edward

• easy access to buses on Royal York & Prince Edward, as well as the Royal York subway station

• easy commute downtown by highway or TTC

• Brentwood Public Library is located on Brentwood Road North

• the 'Taste of the Kingsway' is celebrated along Bloor Street every September

• beautiful wide streets & big mature tress are signature features of this highly desirable & well established area

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The Crooked Cue

INDULGE.

• at Azaria's with their extensive tapas menu & busy downtown vibe

• in Demetre's ice cream treats and specialty coffees

• in a pint at Henry VIII or The Old Sod pubs

• shoot some pool or grab a bite and a drink at The Crooked Cue

• in French cuisine at Merlot, Thai at Green Mango, Greek at The Friendly Greek or Italian at ViBo, Sempre or La Veranda Osteria

• in traditional fish & chips at Kingsway Fish & Chips

• in a delicious meal & glass of wine at Bramble Gastropub

• in a yummy burger and fries at Magic Spot

• in delicious brunch at Creme De La Creme Cafe

• at an old school steakhouse at Harry’s or Black Angus

King’s Mill Park

PLAY.

• at Lambton-Kingsway Park's baseball diamonds, playground, tennis courts, skating rink & outdoor pool

• get your sticks out at Central arena or take the plunge at Memorial Pool & Health Club

• a game of paddle tennis at The Kingsway Platform Tennis Club

• join in on classes & community events at the Park Lawn Community Centre

• bike, jog or walk the dog along the paths by the Humber River & Old Mill

• at the old school Kingsway Theatre

• treat yourself to a spa treatment at The Spa at the Old Mill

Oleander Floral Design

SHOP.

• ffor flowers & gifts at Oleander Floral Design

• for your dad, brother or husband at Bill Mile's for Men

• for cigars at The Cigar Studio

• for dance gear at Footloose Dancewear

• for lingerie at Simply Chic

• for on-trend women's fashions at Carriage Trade, Lemonwood or Casual Affairs Clothing

• for specialty foods at White House Meats

• for everything for the grill at Dickson Barbeque Centre

To find out about other amazing neighbourhoods and the best places to eat, play and shop in Toronto’s west end, check out our neighbourhoods page. If you would like more information about this fabulous west end Toronto neighbourhood or if we are missing one of your favourite local businesses, please feel free to drop us a line at info@westsidestoreys.com - we are always available for your quesitons!

Is it a good time to buy west Toronto real estate?

In a city like Toronto, where real estate is a city-wide obsession and avid spectator sport, the question on everyone’s mind (and the one we get asked at least once a day!) is ‘what is going on in the Toronto real estate market?’

Given all the speculation, we thought we would take a moment to address what is going on, specifically in the west Toronto real estate market, and based on our 20+ years of experience, where we think it is going.

First things first, we’re not saying don’t listen to the media, but the media LOVES to talk about real estate, and generally, they are in one of two camps - the market is crazy and the bubble is about to burst OR the bubble has burst and the sky is falling. Neither of which has proven to be true in the last couple of decades. However, there is no denying that the market was crazy and (in our opinion) unsustainable at the beginning of this year, and that a perfect storm of influences (supply chain issues, the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, inflation, and the resulting interest rate hikes) has created a ‘pause’ in the market that we haven’t seen since the Great Recession in 2009. But even in 2009, the pause in the Toronto real estate market only lasted about 8 months and we think that this market will probably follow suit.

We don’t have a crystal ball, but these are the reasons that we think the market will start to rebound in the next 4-6 months:

1. sellers can only hold off for so long

   there is a multitude of reasons why people need to sell their homes including death, divorce, job loss, job transfer, expanding family, etc., and while some of these reasons can be put off for the short term, at some point despite market conditions, the house will have to go on the market. At the moment, everyone who can hold off selling their homes in order to see where the market is going is doing so, but that can’t last forever.

2. the city is continuing to grow

   we live in a large growing city with a finite number of properties. Aside from vertical growth, there is nowhere else to build in this city (hello, laneway housing!), so with the population continuing to expand, there is increasing demand for existing properties. Toronto’s population is expected to grow by $1 million people in the next 25 years and with limited inventory, the demand and price of homes will continue to rise

3. in some cases the reduction in price will compensate for the increase in interest rates

   this is not the case in all situations, but for the savvy buyer (with an equally savvy realtor) who can spot a good opportunity, the reduction in price since the peak in February of this year could compensate for the increase in interest rates.

4. buyers with pre-approvals will need to buy in the next few months to take advantage of their locked-in rate

   most of the buyers at the moment are investors with lots of cash on hand, first-time buyers who don’t have anything to sell, and upgraders who will save more money on the property they buy than they will lose on the property they sell. Many of these first-time buyers will have an existing 90-120 day pre-approval (and rate guarantee) and will want to buy before rates go up again and their approval expires. The more buyers that enter the market, the more demand and the higher the prices, which will ultimately motivate sellers to sell.

What does this all mean?

The average price in October was almost $1.1M, which has remained stable over the last few months, while the number of sales compared to October 2021, was down almost 50%. The average price was down 18% compared to the peak in February so we have definitely shifted from a seller’s market (buyers > sellers) to a balanced market (buyers=sellers), meaning homes are not selling as fast and we are seeing lower prices and less competition.

So is it a good time to buy west Toronto real estate?

If you have a pre-approval (which we highly recommend) AND you can find something that fits your parameters, then it is definitely a good time to buy. Also, if you are upgrading from a condo to a semi or detached home, you will likely benefit as well because you will save more money on your purchase than you will lose on your sale. Due to a lack of inventory, the challenge is finding a property that fits your criteria, but if you can open your mind to properties that have been sitting around a while and may have gone overlooked or are in locations that you may not have considered previously, then we suggest striking while the iron is hot, because interest rates are predicted to stay at this level for at least the next year and the market will likely bounce back before then.

What does this mean for sellers?

Sellers shouldn’t be afraid to sell in this market, homes that are well located, show well and are priced properly are selling (sometimes even in competition). In this market, pricing is crucial and since every neighbourhood is its own micro-market, make sure you have an agent who is experienced in and knowledgeable about your particular neighbourhood so they can properly advise you on where to price your home for maximum return. Also, if you are purchasing a new property that is dependent on the price you get for your current home, for the first time in a long time we highly recommend selling before you buy.

If you would like more insight into this market, or if you would like to have a conversation about how we approach real estate differently; developing a customized plan to find you your perfect home or sell your existing home in a shifting market; please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are always available for your questions!

The Best of Bloor West!

Now that Covid restrictions are lifting, it is time to get out and support our beloved local west end Toronto businesses, who have suffered so much throughout the pandemic. To help you find the best places to eat, play and shop, we are updating our neighbourhood pages and will be highlighting a different west end Toronto area over the next few months. First up is Bloor West Village and Swansea!

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AVERAGE SALE PRICE (2021)

detached | $1.87M

semi-detached | $1.35M

TYPE OF HOMES

The neighbourhood consists of mostly detached, 2-storey brick homes with lovely shaded front porches and mutual drives or front pad parking.

Est.

1920’s

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fun fact

The Bloor West Village Business Improvement Association was started and spear headed by Alex Ling in 1970. It was the first BIA in the world! The BWV BIA has served as a model for all future BIA's.

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bloor west village/swansea schools

Runnymede Public School

Public | Runnymede PS (JK-8), Swansea PS (JK-8), Humberside CI (9-12)

French | Runnymede PS (JK-8 - immersion), Swansea PS (JK-8 - immersion/extended), Humberside CI (9-12)

Catholic | St. Pius X (JK-8), St. Cecilia's (JK-8), Bishop Morocco (9-12)

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THE BLOOR WEST VILLAGE/SWANSEA NEIGHBOURHOOD

• restaurants, bars & shopping located along Bloor Street between South Kingsway & Ellis Park

• easy access to buses on Jane & Runnymede, as well as the Jane & Runnymede subway stations

• easy commute downtown by highway or TTC & fast access to the airport

• Runnymede Public Library is located on Bloor Street & Swansea Memorial Library is located on Lavinia Avenue

• local community theatre, The Village Playhouse, located on Bloor

• the well known 'Ukrainian Festival' is celebrated every September

• family-centric & located steps to High Park, great shopping & tree lined streets all make this a highly desirable neighbourhood

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A Dark Horse Pub

INDULGE.

• in delicious Italian food at Queen's Pasta and La Capricciosa and pizza at Bello and Gatto Pizzerias

• in great coffee at Baka Cafe, Coffee Tree, HotBlack Coffee, ZAZA & The Coffee Boutique

• in fresh baked treats at Janchenko’s, Bread & Roses, Ma Maison, Bake Sale, COBS or Hot Oven Bakery

• in a pint at Bryden's, Shakey's or A Dark Horse pubs

• in Asian food at Ka Chi, Asa and Kenkou Sushi or Yumi Japanese

• in traditional European fare at Amber European Restaurant, Indian at Bukhara Grill, Latin fare at Bloom, Thai at Simply Thai or Turkish at Flame Food + Design

• on Jane Street at the delicious Mad Mexican, Queen Margherita Pizza, the French cafe Patisserie 27 or enjoy the charming ambiance at Campo

• at the popular Annette Food Market on Annette Street

Swansea Town Hall

PLAY.

• at the city's largest green space, High Park (you can hit the new adventure park, zoo, off leash dog park or take in a play!)

• tennis at one of High Park's public courts or join the private Howard Park Tennis Club

• bike, jog or walk the dog along the paths by the Humber River & Old Mill

• join in on classes & community events at Swansea Town Hall

• lace up your skates or hit the courts at Rennie Park

• do some laps or join a class at the Swansea Community Centre

• perfect your downward dog at Modo Yoga Bloor West or firm up your core at Retrofit Pilates

Max’s Market

SHOP.

• for flowers & veggies at one of the many green grocers along Bloor Street

• for lovely gifts for yourself or others at Lemon & Lavender, Say Tea or Quipus Crafts

• for books at the amazing Book City

• for the latest fashions at Diversity, Fig Tree, Buck’s Hard Goods, The Shoppe & Trixie

• for gorgeous cookware at Cookery

• for something pretty at HER's Fine Lingerie

• for men’s clothing at Cecil Ward & Sons

• for specialty foods at Max’s Market, Bloor Meat Market, The CakeSmith, Snappers Fish Market, Kingsway Meats or Rowe Farms

• for bikes and sports equipment at Wheels of Bloor, Racer Sportif or Brown’s Sports & Cycle

• for bedding at Linen World or Bettenhaus

If you would like more information about this fabulous west end Toronto neighbourhood or if we are missing one of your favourite local businesses, please feel free to drop us a line at info@westsidestoreys.com - we are always available or your quesitons!

7 Benefits of Downsizing your home

We teamed up with Delmanor Prince Edward to provide a free information session on the benefits of downsizing and why it is important to be proactive about the process of downsizing your home. Some of our favourite 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.

Downsizing can be an overwhelming and emotional process, which is why it is important to be proactive and have a solid plan in place. However, there are many upsides to downsizing and here are a few of the clear benefits.

A more manageable space

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, once they have made the move to a smaller home, condo or retirement community, they find the space to be much more manageable and they will often experience the added benefit of a wider social network as well!

financial freedom

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. Downsizing can free up finances to allow for more options such as travel, gifting money to loved ones or pursuing new activities and hobbies. Regardless of the reason or motivation, the process is similar for everyone and requires compassion, sensitivity and proactive planning.

minimalism

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. Once the process is complete however, there is a certain freedom that comes with owning less ‘stuff’ which can open up possibilities that were not previously a consideration.

choices

Being proactive about downsizing provides the time to research what the next best step is and weigh the pros and cons of each option. You are in a far better position to make the best decision for you if you start the process early, as opposed to being in a situation where you are forced to make decisions quickly and without forethought. With these considerations 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.

the luxury of time

With less space to manage, this not only frees up finances but something equally as valuable, time. Without lawns to mow or big homes to clean, our clients find that they have more time to spend with friends and family, travel and pursue interests that they didn’t have time for previously.

Social Life

We touched on this earlier, but it is important to consider the social aspect of downsizing, particularly if you are currently living alone. If a condo or retirement community is your best next step, there are often many organized group activities, exercise classes, movie nights and outings, which provide opportunities to socialize and make new friends.

Health & Safety

The increased social interaction alone can improve quality of life, but if your current home has safety risks such as stairs, or if you find that you need some amount of care or supervision, downsizing can certainly help not only improve the quality of your life, but extend it as well.

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!