Why Work With an Agent Who Specializes in Downsizing?

Downsizing is more than moving to a smaller home; it’s about simplifying life while maintaining comfort, value and peace of mind. Downsizing specialists understand both the emotional and practical sides of this transition, from selling a treasured family home to choosing the right path toward your next chapter. With the right guidance, you can move forward smoothly and confidently into a lifestyle that fits your needs today.

Kirby Chan & Co. Real Estate Team brings more than 20 years of experience serving the Greater Toronto Area. Led by Kirby Chan, the team is known for structured guidance, clear communication and a proven home-selling system. We support homeowners through both the practical and emotional aspects of Downsizing, providing thoughtful advice and steady coordination at every stage. With over 20 years of experience serving the Greater Toronto Area, Kirby leads the team with a clear mission: helping families build generational wealth through smart, strategic real estate decisions. Grounded in the core values of collaboration, integrity, responsibility and generosity, the team is known for personalized service and a proven home-selling system that delivers long-term value for clients.

Kirby's approach to downsizing is both professional and personal, shaped by hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the emotional and practical challenges involved. He has personally helped his mother and his in-laws downsize after many years in their family homes, giving him first-hand insight into the emotional challenges, difficult decisions and stress that often come with letting go of a longtime residence.

Whether you’re buying your first home, planning for the future, selling to move ahead or investing to build a legacy, our team brings deep market insight, personalized service and unwavering commitment at every stage of the journey.

Richmond Hill · Markham · Toronto

Call our dedicated Downsizing Hotline for assistance: 416-305-8008

Downsizing isn’t just about square footage; it’s about entering a new season of life with clarity, comfort and freedom. Whether you’re transitioning from a family home, preparing for retirement or choosing a lifestyle that’s easier to manage, our agents are trained to make the process clear, thoughtful and stress-free.

Why Work With a Downsizing Specialist

At Kirby Chan & Co. Real Estate Team , our agents receive specialized training and mentorship to understand the unique needs of clients who are downsizing. Through courses led by experienced agents, hands-on coaching and marketing support, our team learns how to guide families with empathy while delivering expert advice on preparing, pricing and marketing a downsized property. This ensures clients feel understood and supported every step of the way.

Downsizing With Confidence

The decision to downsize often brings a mix of excitement and emotion. We equip agents with proven systems, scripts and resources to help clients navigate these feelings while focusing on their goals. From professional staging advice to trusted community referrals, our agents provide the confidence that clients need to embrace as they move forward into their next chapter.

Connected Locally and Globally

Our strength extends beyond local expertise. Through eXp Realty’s global network, our agents connect clients with relocation specialists, senior-living consultants and trusted service providers across Richmond Hill, Markham, Toronto and beyond. This approach ensures clients benefit from personalized local knowledge, supported by the reach and resources of a global real estate community.

The Downsizing Process Step by Step

Step 1: Evaluate Your Needs

  • Think about how you live today and how you want your life to look like five years from now.
  • Assess your wants and needs. Do you want a yard? Do you need fewer stairs? Would a condo suit your lifestyle better?
  • Focus on comfort, convenience and future needs.

Step 2: Declutter and Simplify

  • Start sorting items early. Choose to either keep, donate, gift or sell.
  • Ask yourself: Do I still use this? Does it hold meaning? Will it fit into my next home?
  • Go over each room one at a time so you don’t get overwhelmed.

Step 3: Plan Your Finances

  • Review the costs for your next home (including purchase price, rent, condo fees and utilities).
  • Factor in moving costs and potential renovations.
  • Consider how the proceeds from the sale of your current home fit into your overall financial plan.

Step 4: Choose the Right Location

  • Be clear on priorities: proximity to family, accessibility of medical care and lifestyle amenities.
  • Research neighbourhoods and communities that align with your goals.
  • Visit potential areas before making a final decision.

Step 5: Sell Your Current Home

  • Prepare necessary updates and staging.
  • Work with an agent experienced in helping clients downsize.
  • Price strategically as buyers value move-in-ready homes.

Step 6: Make the Move

  • Hire movers who offer downsizing or senior-friendly services.
  • Consider temporary storage if you’re unsure about certain items.
  • Give yourself time to adjust emotionally. This is not just a physical move.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the right time to downsize?
When maintaining your current home starts to feel overwhelming or when you’re looking for greater freedom and financial flexibility, it’s most likely a good time to explore downsizing options.
2. How do I decide what to keep and what to sell?
Starting early is key. We can connect you with professional organizers and estate planning resources to help make the process clear, manageable and less stressful.
3. Do I need to sell before I buy my next home?
Not always. We help you plan the timing of your sale and purchase so you can transition smoothly without feeling rushed or pressured.
4. What type of home is best for downsizers?
Condos, townhomes and bungalows are popular choices as they offer comfort, low maintenance and accessibility.
5. Can I use the equity from my current home to buy my next one?
Yes. Many clients use the equity in their home to fund their next purchase or to support their retirement and long-term financial plans.
6. How can I prepare my home for sale?
We provide staging options, cleaning and marketing to help your home appeal to buyers and achieve the strongest possible sale price.
7. Do you work with downsizers moving to other cities?
Yes. Through eXp Realty’s global network, we connect you with trusted agents and relocation professionals across Canada and beyond.
8. Are there tax implications when downsizing?
There can be. We work closely with trusted accountants and professionals to help you understand capital gains considerations and available tax exemptions.
9. Who is the best agent to help me downsize and sell my home??
Working with an agent who specializes in downsizing makes a meaningful difference. Kirby Chan and Co. agents are trained to guide clients through different aspects of downsizing, ensuring you feel informed, supported and confident at every stage.

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Kirby Chan, Broker
Kirby Chan, Broker

Co-Founder & Broker | License ID: 9533841

+1(416) 305-8008 | info@kirbychanandco.com

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