The Complete Guide to Downsizing in Ontario
Updated: October 2025
Downsizing in Ontario works best with a clear 12–16 week plan and a budget that covers both the purchase and the move. This guide uses GTA and Niagara examples, compares condos and bungalows, and includes a week-by-week declutter plan. Download the free 16-week checklist and book your free Rightsize Plan to keep timelines and costs on track.
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Why Downsizing Helps Many Ontario Homeowners
Downsizing is more than moving to a smaller home. It aligns your living space with your financial goals and lifestyle. For many, it lowers monthly costs and frees up equity. For others, it reduces maintenance and keeps life simple.
Across the GTA and Niagara, we see downsizing improve quality of life, increase financial flexibility, and create space for travel, hobbies, and family time.
When Downsizing Makes Sense
Financial Freedom
Selling a larger home can unlock equity that is tied up in your property. Many clients use it to pay off debt, fund retirement, or build a safety cushion.
Lower Maintenance
Smaller homes mean fewer repairs, less cleaning, and less yard work. That leaves more time and energy for what you enjoy.
Accessibility and Long-Term Comfort
In St. Catharines and Niagara, most of our downsizers choose single-level bungalows or elevator condos to cut stairs and widen daily pathways.
What to look for
- Main-floor bedroom, bath, and laundry
- Doorways about 36 inches and hallways about 42 inches
- Zero-step entry or a low threshold at front and garage
- Walk-in shower with handheld and blocking for future grab bars
- Lever handles, rocker switches, and bright task lighting
- Non-slip flooring and clear turning space in kitchen and bath
- Space for a future ramp or stair lift if needed
📌 Related: The Benefits of Downsizing Your Home
Step 1: Clarify Your Priorities
Ask yourself:
- What is my primary reason for downsizing?
- How much space do I truly need for daily life and guests?
- What level of upkeep do I want to handle?
💡 Tip: Use the CMHC housing affordability calculator to estimate a comfortable purchase price. This supports searchers looking for how to downsize in Ontario with real numbers.
Step 2: Explore Your Options
You may not need to move far to find the right fit. These options work well for Ontario downsizers:
- Condominiums. Good for a low-maintenance lifestyle with conveniences like fitness rooms, community lounges, or guest suites. Ideal for frequent travellers who want to lock the door and go without worrying about exterior upkeep.
- Single-Level Homes. Bungalows and ranch-style homes keep daily living on one floor and still offer private outdoor space for gardening, pets, or a small patio.
- 55+ or Adult-Lifestyle Communities. Planned neighbourhoods with social programs, recreational facilities, and included services such as lawn care or snow removal.
📌 Related: GTA condo vs bungalow for downsizers
Step 3: Your 3-Zone Declutter Plan
Start with the garage, closets, and spare rooms. Work in short, timed sessions and use a 3-zone system to stay organized.
- Keep: daily essentials and meaningful items.
- Donate: furniture, décor, and clothing in good condition.
- Sell: marketplace, consignment, estate sale, or auction vendors.
Step 4: Prepare Your Home for Sale
A prepared home sells faster and for more money. Use this Ontario downsizing checklist before photos and showings:
- Declutter and depersonalize each room
- Make minor repairs and refresh paint in key areas
- Use professional staging to highlight space and light
- Hire a professional photographer for your online listing
📌 Related: Ontario downsizing decluttering checklist
Step 5: Plan the Move
When selling and buying in the same market, timing matters.
- Negotiate a longer closing period on your sale
- Use bridge financing to purchase before you sell if it suits your budget
- Consider short term accommodation as a backup plan
Step 6: Set Up the New Space
- Measure rooms and plan scaled furniture
- Add built-ins or vertical shelving to maximize storage
- Keep a few familiar pieces for continuity
Understand the Costs of Downsizing in Ontario
Downsizing Cost Comparison
| Expense | Larger Home | Smaller Home |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | Higher | Lower |
| Maintenance | Higher | Lower |
| Property Taxes | Higher | Lower |
| Mortgage/Equity | More tied up | More freed up |
📌 Related: Renting vs buying after downsizing in Ontario
Cost Snapshot: St. Catharines vs Mississauga (Freehold, 2025)
For many GTA sellers relocating to Niagara, total monthly carry can still drop because the purchase price and mortgage are lower, even though utilities and home insurance are often higher in St. Catharines. Property tax varies by address and is verified for each property.
*Illustrative only, not a rate quote.
One-Time Move Costs: Typical Ranges
Budget for professional movers, storage, staging, and light repairs. Totals vary by distance, access, and property size.
$1,200–$2,800
Varies by volume, stairs, and day of week.
$150–$300 / month
Locker to bridge dates and keep rooms clear.
$500–$2,500
Focus on curb appeal and first-look rooms.
Complimentary for 1 month*
*Included with your listing package.
Tip: A 30–60 day storage locker keeps rooms open and buyers focused on space, not belongings.
Common Downsizing Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long to start decluttering
- Not budgeting for closing and moving costs
- Forgetting long-term accessibility needs
- Choosing a layout that does not match daily routines
Ontario Resources for Downsizers
Frequently Asked Questions About Downsizing in Ontario
Most moves take four to six months from decision to move. A clear plan shortens the timeline. See our guide to how to downsize locally in Ontario.
It depends on goals, lifestyle, and local pricing. Review our full comparison here: Ontario renting vs buying after downsizing.
In many communities, smaller condos and single level bungalows balance price and convenience. Compare options here: GTA condo vs bungalow for downsizers.
Yes. Many homeowners reduce monthly expenses, free up equity, and eliminate maintenance. This is common between the GTA and Niagara where utilities and property taxes are often lower.
There is no perfect age. Many move between 55 and 75 when maintenance becomes tiring, or they want a lock-and-go lifestyle.
Clarify priorities and set a timeline. Most downsizing projects take 12–16 weeks. Our checklist walks through each step.
Ready to Downsize With a Clear Plan?
If you are planning a move in the GTA or Niagara, we can create a custom shortlist of bungalows or condos, compare monthly costs, and help you prepare your current home for sale.
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
📌 Book your free Rightsize Plan
https://francoisepollard.com/contact-us/
Keith & Françoise