Every time I help a client prepare their home for sale, whether they’re downsizing, simplifying, or just ready for a fresh start, I’m reminded of one universal truth: decluttering teaches us far more about our lives than we expect.

Here are some of the biggest lessons that tend to show up again and again:

We Own Way Too Much Stuff

It usually starts with one drawer… then one closet… then the basement. Suddenly, you realize your home has been quietly filling up for years. Decluttering shines a light on just how much we accumulate without noticing.

We Don’t Use Half of It

Most people use the same small rotation of clothing, kitchen tools, and household items. The rest? Stored away, untouched. Decluttering forces us to confront the difference between what we own and what we actually use.

No Wonder We’re in Debt

When you start adding up the cost of items you no longer want, need, or remember buying, it becomes obvious: clutter isn’t just physical, it’s financial. Seeing the volume of unused purchases helps many people rethink their spending habits.

Our Spending Is Out of Control

Decluttering is a powerful mirror. It reveals emotional shopping, impulse buys, “just in case” items, and the things we bought to comfort, reward, or distract ourselves. It’s a wake-up call for how we want to spend going forward.

Decluttering Is Not as Hard as It Looks

Once you begin, momentum builds quickly. Small wins lead to bigger ones, and before you know it you’re sorting, editing, and making decisions faster than you thought possible. Often the idea of decluttering is the hardest part, not the actual process.

Letting Go Feels Good

There’s a moment every client hits where they say, “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
Releasing what no longer serves us creates space, physically, emotionally, and mentally. It feels like a weight has been lifted.

I’d Rather an Item Have a New Life Than Sit Unused

This is one of the most powerful mindset shifts. Letting go isn’t wasteful, it’s generous. Items sitting in storage aren’t serving you, but they could be serving someone else beautifully. Donation and resale platforms give your belongings a second life.

Final Thought: Decluttering Is More Than Cleaning, It’s Clarity

Whether you’re preparing to downsize, hoping to simplify, or just want more breathing room, decluttering is one of the most transformative steps you can take. It’s the first stage of any successful transition, and it often brings a sense of peace people didn’t know they were missing.

If you’d like help getting started, contact me for my free “Decluttering Checklist.” It’s simple, practical, and designed to make the process feel manageable and empowering.

Shelley Hird
North Shore Realtor® & Downsizing Specialist
604.209.4855
info@shelleyhird.com

By Shelley Hird
North Shore and Downsizing Specialist

If you’ve been thinking about simplifying your life, reducing expenses, or starting a meaningful new chapter, I’m excited to share a brand-new resource designed to guide you every step of the way.

Today, I’m thrilled to announce the release of The Essential Downsizing Guide for Homeowners – 10 Steps for Success.

Downsizing isn’t just about moving—it’s about making space for what truly matters. This guide was created to help homeowners navigate the emotional, logistical, and practical sides of transitioning to a smaller, more intentional home.

As the guide reminds us:

“The way to give ourselves what we need is to let go of what we don’t.”
— Marie Kondo

This philosophy beautifully captures the heart of downsizing—and it’s woven throughout all ten steps.

🔟 The 10 Essential Steps for Downsizing Success

Inspired by the themes from the guide

1. Identify Your Wants, Needs and Goals

Before packing a single box, take time to understand why you’re downsizing.
Are you seeking simplicity, financial relief, or a fresh start?
Your purpose will help guide every decision that follows.

2. Declutter With Purpose

This is your chance to create space for what truly matters. Each item you release opens up room for new adventures, memories and peace of mind. 

3. Plan Ahead

A smooth downsizing journey begins with a roadmap. Set timelines, outline your goals, and break everything into manageable stages.

4. Share, Donate, or Sell with Purpose

Letting go isn’t about losing—it’s about choosing.
Move room by room, focusing on what adds value to your life today.

5. Get Your Paperwork In Order

The greatest gift you can give your family is a well organized home with clear, accessible documents. 

6. Prepare And Plan Your Move

Thoughtful preparation is the key to a seamless transition. Hire you team you need and plan ahead. 

7. Honour Your Feelings Along The Way

Saying farewell to your longtime home can be bittersweet. Be kind to yourself as you move forward. 

8. ‘Reclutter’ With Intention

Tips to shape your new space into one that feels both comfortable and distinctly yours.

9. Settle In and Thrive In Your New Lifestyle

Build new habits and embrace your new community as you begin your next chapter. 

10. A Mindset Shift Moving Forward

Downsizing is more than a move—it’s an opportunity to craft a more meaningful, peaceful, and aligned life.
Celebrate the transition, breathe deeply, and enjoy the simplicity you’ve created.

💛 Downsizing with Support, Guidance, and Purpose

This guide was created to offer encouragement, practical advice, and grounded support as you navigate an important life shift. Whether you're moving closer to loved ones, reducing maintenance, or beginning a new adventure, these ten steps will help make your transition smooth, rewarding, and purposeful.

Download your PDF copy of ‘The Essential Downsizing Guide for Homeowners’ 
Here - https://shelleyhird.com/decluttering-and-downsizing-presentation.html

If you're ready to begin your downsizing journey—or simply want to learn more—you can reach out anytime:

Shelley Hird
North Shore Realtor® and Downsizing Specialist
📞 604-209-4855
📧 info@shelleyhird.com
🌐 www.shelleyhird.com

Your next chapter is waiting—and it might be simpler, lighter, and more meaningful than you ever expected.

If you’re thinking about selling your home, especially if you’re downsizing, you might be wondering where to start. Over the years, I’ve helped many North Vancouver homeowners prepare their properties for the market, and I’ve seen firsthand what truly makes a difference when it comes to attracting buyers and maximizing your return.

The good news? You don’t have to do a full renovation to get top dollar. With some strategic preparation, your home can stand out beautifully in today’s competitive market.

Here are my top five insider tips, based on my professional experience, to help your North Vancouver home sell faster and for the best price.

1. Declutter and Depersonalize

Cost: Low | ROI: Very High

Insider Tip: Less really is more when it comes to selling your home.

Buyers need to picture themselves in your space, not you. Start by clearing away personal photos, collectibles, and excess décor. Simplify countertops and reduce furniture to create a sense of openness and calm.

If you’re downsizing, this step is especially important and can even be emotional. Begin early and decide what to keep, donate, or gift. It’s the perfect way to start your next chapter with less clutter and more clarity.

Feeling overwhelmed? I work with professional organizers and downsizing specialists right here in North Vancouver who can make the process simple and stress-free.

2. Deep Clean Everything

Cost: Low to Moderate | ROI: Very High

Insider Tip: Buyers notice cleanliness before anything else.

A spotless home tells buyers it’s been well cared for. From baseboards to window sills, every surface should sparkle. Pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms because these rooms have the biggest impact on a buyer’s impression.

If you’re short on time or energy, I can connect you with trusted North Vancouver cleaning professionals who specialize in preparing homes for sale. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to make your home shine.

3. Refresh with Paint

Cost: Moderate | ROI: High

Insider Tip: A fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest ways to transform your home.

Stick to neutral, light colours such as warm whites, beiges, or soft greys. These tones brighten rooms and appeal to a wide range of buyers. Consider a refresh on the Kitchen or Vanity cabinets for a quick cosmetic update.  Don’t forget to freshen up trim, doors, and especially your front door because first impressions count.

I can recommend reliable North Shore painters who know how to choose the right shades and ensure your home looks picture-perfect for showings and photos.

4. Maximize Curb Appeal

Cost: Moderate | ROI: Very High

Insider Tip: Buyers often fall in love before they even walk through the door.

Your home’s exterior sets the tone for everything that follows. Keep your landscaping tidy, your pathways clean, and your entryway welcoming. In North Vancouver’s lush environment, a little outdoor maintenance goes a long way.

Simple touches that make a big difference include:

• Fresh mulch and seasonal flowers

• Power-washed driveway and siding

• A freshly painted or new front door

Need a hand? I can connect you with local landscapers and exterior cleaning experts who know how to make North Vancouver homes shine, rain or shine.

5. Tackle the Small Repairs

Cost: Varies | ROI: High

Insider Tip: Buyers notice the details, and small fixes add big value.

Before listing, take care of those minor repairs you’ve been putting off, such as dripping taps, squeaky doors, loose handles, or chipped paint. These little details help your home feel move-in ready.

If you’d rather not handle it yourself, I work with reliable North Shore handymen who can check off your to-do list quickly and professionally.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your home for sale in North Vancouver doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It just takes a clear plan and a bit of expert guidance. As a North Vancouver real estate and downsizing specialist, I’ve helped many homeowners transform their spaces and achieve amazing results.

My goal is to help you simplify, prioritize, and prepare your home so that it truly stands out to buyers. I can also connect you with my trusted network of local professionals, from cleaners and painters to organizers and landscapers, to make the process seamless.

💬 Thinking About Selling or Downsizing in North Vancouver?

Let’s chat! I’d love to share more personalized insider advice based on your home and your goals. Together, we can make your next move smooth, stress-free, and rewarding.

📞 Contact me today to start preparing your North Vancouver home for a successful sale!
Shelley Hird  |  North Shore Realtor® and Downsizing Specialist
info@shelleyhird.com
604.209.4855

“We Should Have Done It Sooner”
That is the number one thing clients say, after they downsize.

Here are a few more from my experience helping homeowners on their downsizing journey.
Which one speaks the most to you?

It finally feels like my home fits my life

No more unused rooms. Just peace and purpose.

It is so freeing not to be owned by my stuff

Less clutter equals more clarity.

We spend more time doing what we love

With less to manage, there is more time to live.

We actually use every inch of our home now

A smaller space equals a smarter space.

It was hard to let go, but so worth it

Releasing what no longer serves you provides space for something new.

Our home finally feels like us

Downsizing helps you live more intentionally.

Every downsizer says the same thing, ‘We wish we’d done it sooner.”
If you are thinking of downsizing, take it from those who did!
Downsizing is about creating space for what truly matters. Whether you’re hoping to simplify your life, ease expenses, or embrace an exciting new beginning, I am here to support you every step of the way.

Need a place to start? Reach out for a FREE Downsizing Consultation!
Shelley Hird
North Shore Realtor® and Downsizing Specialist  |  604.209.4855
info@shelleyhird.com

✨5 Things You Can Do Now to Make Downsizing Easier Later✨

Thinking about downsizing but not quite ready yet?
Here are 5 small steps you can take right now to make your future move seamless and stress-free!

1. Start With One Drawer
There is no better place to start than the beginning. Pick your first drawer (I suggest your Tupperware).
I promise, you’ll gain momentum to tackle another one.

2. Donate One Box A Month
Keep a box in a spare closet. Every time you find something that you no longer need, add it to the donation box. Every month, take that box and donate it. Then start the next box!

3. Digitize Keepsakes
Photobooks and keepsakes are a large part of our possessions that take up space. Take photos of some of your memorable items and digitalize your albums so that you can pass on the memories without the ‘stuff’.

4. Create A “Future Home” Vision Board
Start envisioning how downsizing will look and feel. What will your ideal new space include- Amenities, a more walkable lifestyle? Will it include more travel, and if so - where to? Get excited about your next step!

5. Rethink Your Space
You may not live in every room of your home. Part of downsizing is knowing the ‘right size’ space for your next step.
Start closing off unused rooms so you can get a better idea of how much space you are actually living in. This will help you understand the square footage you need moving forward.

Small steps today lead to a smoother transition tomorrow.

1. Do: Start Early

When it comes to decluttering, preparing your home, and planning your next steps, give yourself plenty of time

Start exploring your next dream home early — having a clear vision of where you’re headed can be a powerful motivator and make the downsizing journey feel exciting instead of overwhelming.

Your next chapter is waiting!

Don’t: Underestimate the Emotion

Leaving a beloved family home is an emotional journey

Take the time and space you need to thoughtfully sort through years of memories. After decades in one place, decluttering can feel both challenging and deeply sentimental. Don’t hesitate to lean on loved ones or professionals for support — you don’t have to do it alone.

Do: Make A Plan

Make a Thoughtful Downsizing Plan

Start with a room-by-room checklist and set realistic goals for what to keep, donate, or sell. Connect with your estate planner and accountant to ensure your financial and legal plans align with your move. Most importantly, involve your family in conversations about next steps and generational legacy — downsizing is about more than space, it’s about preserving what matters most.

Don’t: Wait Until the Last Minute

Don’t wait until life forces your hand

Rushed decisions can lead to stress and regret, especially when health concerns become the driving factor. Instead, focus on the freedom and excitement that come with your next chapter. Embrace the opportunity to create a future that fits your lifestyle. Start today, one step at a time, and make your move on your own terms.

Do: Work with a Real Estate Pro

Partner with a downsizing specialist who understands both the emotional and practical sides of the move.

More than just a real estate agent, an experienced downsizing expert offers step-by-step guidance — from preparing your home for sale to navigating today’s market, especially if it’s been years since you last moved. Making your transition to the next chapter as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Once seen as a transition of necessity, downsizing now represents freedom, simplicity, and a fresh start. It’s about letting go of what no longer serves you and making space for new adventures.

As a certified Seniors Real Estate Specialist, my passion for helping downsizers began with a desire to support homeowners through every step of this transition — from decluttering and home preparation, navigating deferred maintenance, reevaluating the right sized space and planning what comes next with patience, education and guidance.

What I love most? Watching clients discover a renewed sense of freedom and joy once they’re settled into a home that truly fits their lifestyle.

✨ If you're considering a move and want support you can trust, contact me to help guide your downsizing journey.

Please reach out for a FREE Downsizing Consultation!
Shelley Hird
North Shore Realtor® and Downsizing Specialist  |  604.209.4855
info@shelleyhird.com

There is a large change happening in the District for 2025. Utilities will now be billed separately from Property Taxes. In addition to property tax bills received in May/June each residence will now receive a bill in February which is due March 31st (they have offered a penalty free extension until May30th just for this year).

New Utility Bill Estimates for 2025

• Residential condos/townhomes - $1,726.80

• Single family homes - $2393

• Single family homes with suites/secondary accommodations - $3236
  
  These are flat rates and are not based on square footage. This bill is for garbage, sewer, and water. 

This bill was previously combined in the one property tax bill however they have chosen to separate the bills due transparency. Many Municipalities separate the bills in this way. 

What This May Mean For You

If you are currently paying your property taxes through your mortgage you may be over contributing to the 2025 estimated tax bill. You may want to reach out to your mortgage company. If you submit the new utility bill to them when you receive it at the end of February, they can recalculate the estimated property tax owing and deduct some of that payment from your monthly mortgage payments. Hopefully by having them recalculate the estimated taxes it will help to reclaim some of the funds needed by adjusting the mortgage payment, making it easier to pay the utility bill when it comes due. This change moving forward should be less of an issue as they set up the property tax estimates based on the previous year and it sounds like this will be the new format. 

Here is the link to the District's website regarding Utilities - https://www.dnv.org/your-home-property/utilities

If you would like to get a better sense of what the Property Tax portion of the bill will be, here is the calculation. 

Tax rate calculation for 2024 (the 2025 tax rate is not yet decided)
Assessed Value from BC Assessment - eg: 1,500,000
Divided by 1000 = 1500
X the tax rate of 2.89458 = $4341.87
This would be just the property tax portion without the utilities which is due in July. 

*Disclaimer - This information was put together from conversations directly with the District and my personal mortgage company. Feel free to do your own due diligence on how this change directly impacts you!
If you pay your property taxes through your mortgage, you may want to reach out to your mortgage company for advice!

Shelley Hird
REALTOR® 
North Shore and Downsizing Specialist
604.209.4855

SID + JACQUELINE REAL ESTATE GROUP 
OAKWYN REALTY LTD.101 - 3151 Woodbine Drive, North Vancouver, BC V7R 2SW: www.sidandjacqueline.com
E: shelley@sidandjacqueline.com IG: @shelleyhird.realestate

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#1 – Hikes and Bikes
As a realtor on the North Shore, one of the top questions we get from active buyers looking for their next home is ‘Where can I store my bike?’. North and West Vancouver have some of the best biking and hiking trails in BC. Many people looking to live on the North Shore are excited about all of the outdoor activities that the area provides. With some apartment buildings now catering to bike washes and secure bike storage with electrical outlets for your EV needs, this is the place for biking and hiking enthusiasts.
                                Hike and Bike Trails North Vancouver
                                West Vancouver Trails

#2 – Dogs
It is no secret that we take our love of dogs very seriously. They are some of the most adored members of our families and are active members of our communities. The North Shore recognizes the importance of our furry friends and caters to these little four-legged characters. From dog wash stations in apartments to doggy hotels, dog friendly restaurant patios, and dog taxi’s services the North Shore makes it easy to provide the best lifestyle for your pet.
                                North Shore Taxi – Dog Friendly Taxi Service
                                North Vancouver Dog Park Map
                                West Vancouver Dog Park Link 

#3 – Bears
This is not a joke. Bears are a real thing on the North Shore. While living near the base of Mt. Seymour we have had our fair share of bears roaming the streets, in our yard, on our front deck and one even wondered into our neighbours kitchen. I remember when I first moved to North Vancouver and we had a bear in our yard. I called the bear hotline thinking they would send help. I was politely told that bears are a part of the community and to bang pots and pans to try to motivate them to move along. After over a decade, I have embraced coexisting in nature with these beautiful creatures. We give them their space, do our best not to attract them and we teach bear safety in school. There is nothing quite as magical as seeing these beautiful animals treated with kindness and respect and knowing that we share this incredible landscape with them.
                                North Shore Bear Society Info  

#4 – Skiing
Access to mountains is one of the North Shore’s top highlights. Being a place in the world where we need to embrace winter, snow sports provide some much-needed outdoor time and excitement in chilly weather. Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tobogganing are all easily within reach. Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain and Mt Seymour, the trifecta of family friendly ski hills provide affordable access to winter sports and activities, fabulous lessons and training and all-around spectacular views from the North Shore’s highest peeks. Just imagine going from your doorstep to sitting on the chair lift in 12 minutes. You don’t need to image it here. It exists.
                               Grouse Mountain
                               Cypress Mountain
                               Mt Seymour                                               

#5 – Doughnuts
You would be hard pressed to find more specialty doughnut shops than on the North Shore. And who doesn’t love doughnuts! Whether you like fluffy doughnuts, cake style doughnuts or fancy doughnuts, your options abound! What I love most is that these shops are locally owned and operated. Check out some of my favorites below!
                                Honey’s Doughnuts – Deep Cove
                                Cream Pony - Lower Lonsdale
                                Harmony Donut Shop - Upper Lonsdale
                                Goldie’s Donuts – Horseshoe Bay

 #6 – Community Events
You will find an abundance of community events on the North Shore. Each area puts a ton of effort into planning and implementing some of the best attended activities. From Friday Nights at the Shipyards, Deep Cove Summer Events, Cates Park Music Nights, Harmony Arts Festival, West Vancouver Community Cultural Fest, the list is endless. You may even find a few of your neighbour dressing up in themed costumes to support the local schools for fundraisers such as the Seycove Auction. Fun is always had and immersing yourself in the local events is a great way to meet new friends on the North Shore.
                                Friday Night Market at The Shipyards
                                Cates Park Concert Series
                                Harmony Arts Festival
                                West Van Cultural Fest

#7 – Waterfront Patios
Happy Hour at its finest! The North Shore has some of the best waterfront patios to indulge in your favorite cocktail and admire the breathtaking views. Large patios, fabulous food and the perfect place to make memories with friends and family. Here are three of my absolute favs!
                                Joey’s Shipyards
                                The Beach House
                                Arms Reach

#8 – Watersports
The North Shore’s access to water is one of its most desirable features. If you love watersports this is the area for you. One of my favourite spots for this is Deep Cove. Kayaking, sailing, rowing and paddleboarding as among some of the easiest ways to get onto the water and be in the most beautiful natural surrounding. You can rent everything you need on the spot, take a picnic and spend hours exploring. If you prefer motorized sports, you can rent a pontoon boat out of the Deep Cove Marina for the day. What a fabulous way to see the Indian Arm with friends. Another highlight is the amazing watersport camps which kids can attend in the summer. These camps have been a particular favorite in our house for the outdoor adventure, water training and life skills which they teach along with the epic hours of fun.
                                  Deep Cove Marina
                                  Deep Cove Kayaks

#9 – Family Friendly Facilities
Recreation centres, swimming pools, skateparks, ice rinks, waterparks, libraries and more, the North Shore has a way of promoting family adventures in a huge way. Kids feel safe here. They roam the streets, and hang at the skatepark like we did in the 1980’s with freedom and independence. The community centres provide drop ins for toddler age all the way to seniors, catering to every age group. Community dances, movie nights, workshops, and cooking classes all in support of the local happiness. It’s not just the facilities, but the programs and the staff as well. Well run, thoughtful and engaging. Happy people are from happy communities. On the North Shore you are in good company.
                                    North Vancouver Recreation and Culture 
                                    West Vancouver Recreation Programs

#10 – Views
With its mountainous terrain and oceanfront vantage points it is no surprise that views are among the most spectacular on the North Shore. What I love about the area though, is that you can often find the most unexpected views. While driving you can take a turn onto an unassuming side street and get smacked with a stunning downtown and ocean view you never knew existed. With vibrant green and seasonally white mountains to the north, city views and bridges to the south, Indian Arm to the east and picturesque islands to the west, the North Shore’s scenery is endlessly breathtaking.