For this blog, I thought it would be fun to do an impromptu Q&A with my client Rhae, who, along with her husband, recently downsized from a house they called home for 30 years.
In our conversation, we talk about the reasons behind the move, getting the house ready, finding a new home, and a whole lot more.
If you’ve been thinking about trading your home for something smaller and more manageable, it’s helpful to hear from someone who just went through the process themselves. Let’s get started!
Curious about what your house could be worth? Schedule a property evaluation.
What Inspired Your Move?
Rhae:
There were a few reasons behind our move, but a big one was my retirement. Now that I wasn’t working in the city, we felt like it didn’t make sense for us to stay in Toronto.
We also wanted to be closer to our cottage on Lake Erie and some of our family members and friends in the west.
As empty nesters, we also felt it was simply time for a smaller, easier to manage home.
What Led You to Me?
Rhae:
My husband and brother-in-law first met Melissa at a showing in Mimico and really appreciated how approachable and professional she was. When it came time to sell, we researched and interviewed multiple agents but ultimately chose her because she was smart, genuine, and had experience in South Etobicoke and our first choice community, Clarkson.
Hoping to make the most of your home sale? Check out these other blogs for even more helpful advice.
- How I Sold an Etobicoke Condo in Just Two Weeks
- The Ultimate Guide to Selling in a Buyer’s Market
- How to Sell Your House For the Maximum Price
Did You Have Any Goals For Your Sale?
Rhae:
Going into the sale, our biggest point of reference was the post-COVID market from a few years ago. When we first started talking to Melissa about the type of asking price we had in mind, she was open to trying our initial goal. At the same time, she also steered us in the right direction about where the market is now.
We weren’t in any rush to sell, which worked in our favour.
Let’s Talk About Preparation. What Was the Process Like?
Rhae:
When you’ve been in a house for 30 years, the idea of getting it ready for sale can be overwhelming. Thankfully, Melissa’s guidance made the process fairly easy.
We’d done a lot of work maintaining and updating the house over the years, so all we really needed to do was a few minor touch-ups, like a fresh coat of paint.
Next, we went through the house, decluttering and depersonalizing each room. I must admit that clearing out years and years’ worth of stuff felt pretty good.
Melissa then brought in professional cleaners, which was super helpful. She also had our home professionally staged after that.
What Did You Think of Buyers’ Response to Your Home?
Rhae:
We knew we might need to be patient while our house was on the market. That said, Melissa was always checking in with us and providing updates on how things were going. She was really encouraging and a great guide when it came to making adjustments.
When our buyer finally placed their offer, Melissa was really supportive of our priorities. After a bit of back and forth, she was able to negotiate a deal that we were happy with.
Moving on to Buying, What Were You Looking For in a New Home?
Rhae:
My husband and I had been researching homes for more than a year before we decided to move. We had a pretty specific wishlist, right down to the neighbourhood, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, size and layout.
I almost can’t believe it, but our new home checked every last one of these boxes!
What Was It Like to Find “The One”?
Rhae:
Melissa sent us an email a few hours before the house officially went on the market. As soon as we saw it, we knew it was the one. She responded quickly and was able to get us a showing that day. The next morning, we placed an offer at 8 AM!
Not only did we beat other buyers to the punch, but Melissa was also able to negotiate a lower price on the home. The entire process was incredibly smooth and took less than 24 hours.
Looking for more advice to help with your downsizing journey? Read these blog posts next!
- Should You Sell Your Home Before Buying a New One?
- Is It Wise For You to Downsize Your Home?
- Why Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent Matters
What Would You Tell Someone Who Is Thinking About Downsizing?
Rhae:
I’d say get started now. It’s never too early to begin decluttering because it’ll probably take longer than you’re expecting. On that note, don’t rely on family members or friends to pick away at your stuff. You’re better off being proactive and doing it yourself, as it’s very personal deciding what to keep, donate, sell and throw away.
I’d also say that choosing the right real estate agent is super important! You should research and interview multiple people before you decide. You want someone who is knowledgeable, has the credentials, and is a great communicator. Melissa is all of these.
Ready to Downsize? I Can Help!
Melissa here! I’d like to say a big thank you to Rhae for sharing her experience.
If you’ve been thinking about downsizing your home, I’d love to chat with you about your goals. Get in touch with me today to find out how I can help you move into your best chapter yet.
Selling or buying? Call or text me at 647-239-7587 or email melissa@southetobicoke.com to get started.
Have Real Estate Questions?
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just have questions, let’s start the conversation.
