Age Groups, Motivations, and What the Data Really Shows For The Most Successful Moves

When people hear the word downsizing, they usually picture one thing:
A retired couple in their late seventies selling the family home.
But that’s only part of the story.

As a North Shore Realtor specializing in helping homeowners transition out of single detached homes, I see downsizing happening across multiple age groups — for very different reasons.

Some moves are strategic.
Some are emotional.
Some are urgent.

And the data in Vancouver tells a very clear story:
The earlier you plan, the smoother the transition.

Let’s break this down by age group — and what the real numbers are telling us.

The 50–59 Age Group

The Strategic Planners

This is the most underestimated downsizing group.
According to housing data from Statistics Canada, homeowners in their 50s still hold a large percentage of single detached properties across Metro Vancouver.
But this is when the mindset begins to shift.

Motivations at this stage typically include:

• Empty nest transitions

• Peak earning years

• Mortgage nearly paid off

• Retirement planning

• Equity optimization

This group often isn’t downsizing because they have to.
They’re downsizing because they’re thinking ahead.
They’re unlocking equity while market conditions are strong.
They’re diversifying investments.
Some purchase a primary residence and a rental property.
Some eliminate debt entirely.

Success rate? High.
Why?
Because these moves are proactive. They’re planned. They’re not emotionally rushed.
And emotionally, this group tends to adjust quickly because the decision feels empowering — not forced.

The 60–69 Age Group

The Freedom Seekers

This is the most active downsizing decade in Metro Vancouver.
Trends observed through Greater Vancouver Realtors show a significant share of detached listings originate from homeowners in their 60s.
This is when motivations shift from financial strategy to lifestyle freedom.

Common drivers include:

• Retirement

• Maintenance fatigue

• Travel goals

• Desire to be closer to grandchildren

• Simplifying daily life

The “never-ending to-do list” starts to feel heavier.
Roof maintenance.
Landscaping.
Stairs.
Snow. 
And something changes.
You can love your home — and still be ready for lighter living.

The 60–69 group often experiences the smoothest emotional transition, particularly when the move happens before health becomes a factor.
These clients frequently describe the outcome as:
“Relief.”
Not regret.
Relief.

The 70–79 Age Group

Maintenance and Mobility Movers

After 70, motivations begin shifting again.
Data from Statistics Canada shows housing suitability and accessibility concerns increase significantly with age — particularly for those living in multi-level detached homes.

Common drivers in this decade:

• Stairs becoming difficult

• Bathroom safety concerns

• Rising property taxes and maintenance costs

• Desire for secure, low-maintenance living

• Closer proximity to family support

This group often moves to:

• One-level condominiums

• 55+ communities

• Elevator buildings

• Walkable neighbourhoods

The success of this transition depends heavily on timing.
When the move happens early in this decade, adjustment tends to be smooth.
When it’s triggered by a fall, hospital stay, or urgent health event?
The emotional and logistical pressure increases dramatically.

But here’s something important:
Once settled, many in this group report feeling lighter and more socially connected.
Less maintenance.
Less worry.
More freedom.

The 80+ Age Group

Transition by Necessity

After age 80, we often see an increase in moves again — but the reason changes.
Housing data shows this stage is commonly influenced by:

• Widowhood

• Health decline

• Family intervention

• Need for assisted living

This is where downsizing becomes less about strategy and more about circumstance.
Homes may have been lived in for 40 or 50 years.
Maintenance deferred.
Belongings accumulated.
Adult children feeling overwhelmed.

Financially, outcomes are often strong — particularly in Vancouver, where detached home equity remains significant.
Emotionally, however, this is the most difficult stage.
The attachment is deep.
The change is substantial.

This is why planning earlier can make such a difference.

What the Vancouver Data Really Shows

Across Metro Vancouver:

• The majority of detached homeowners are over 55

• The highest volume of voluntary downsizing occurs between 60–75

• Moves after 80 are more likely to be reactive

• Housing costs, proximity to family, and health concerns are the top motivators

And Vancouver adds a unique factor:
Equity leverage.
Detached homes here represent substantial financial value.
For many homeowners, downsizing can unlock hundreds of thousands — sometimes millions — in equity.
That dramatically shifts retirement possibilities.

The Real Predictor of Success

After years of working with downsizing clients, I’ve noticed something important:
Age is not the primary predictor of a successful transition.

Mindset is.

Those who approach downsizing as:
“I get to design my next chapter”
Adapt beautifully.

Those who frame it as:
“I’m losing my home”
Struggle longer.

Same move.
Different narrative.
Very different experience.

The Sweet Spot for Downsizing

If we’re being honest?
The happiest, most energized downsizers I see in Vancouver tend to be in their 60s.

Healthy enough to travel.
Young enough to embrace change.
Financially positioned to leverage equity wisely.
Emotionally ready to simplify.

They move proactively — not reactively.
And that changes everything.

The Bottom Line

Downsizing is not about shrinking your life.
It’s about right-sizing it.

It’s about reclaiming time.
Reducing stress.
Freeing capital.
Creating flexibility.

Every age group approaches it differently.
Every motivation is valid.
But the data — and real-life experience in the North Shore market — tell us one thing clearly:

Have a plan before you need a plan.
Because when downsizing is proactive, it becomes powerful.
When it’s reactive, it becomes overwhelming.

If you’re even beginning to think about your next chapter, the conversation doesn’t have to start with “we’re selling.”

It can start with:
“What would freedom look like for us?”
And that’s where the real planning begins.

Shelley Hird
North Shore Realtor® and Downsizing Specialist
www.shelleyhird.com

Beware of this new trend! The Reverse Home Invasion…. One that only your aging parents will try to orchestrate with their decluttering… 

If you’re lucky enough to have parents in their 70s or 80s, here are the 4 conversations you need to be having right NOW.

Having parents this age is a gift. 
A beautiful, sometimes complicated kind of a gift.
But a gift nonetheless.

And woven into that gift is something we don’t talk about enough — this quiet awareness that time keeps moving. That there’s an inevitability we can feel coming for us but rarely name.

There’s also a gentle responsibility.

One most families politely ignore…
until there’s a fall.
Or a hospital stay.
Or that phone call that begins with,
“I didn’t want to worry you, but…”

And suddenly we’re scrambling.

So today, I want to address the four conversations that are worth having before that moment arrives.
Not because anything is wrong.
Not because we’re trying to rush time.
But because love — when paired with a little bit of planning — equals a whole lot less stress later.
And honestly? A lot more peace for future-you.

I’ve saved the hardest one for last paired with a helpful download to get you through… so stay with me.
Let’s dive in.

Conversation #1: The Stuff Conversation

Starting with the big one.

The reverse invasion!
And by that, I mean… the Stuff. 
The china cabinet,
the boxes in the basement,
the garage that hasn’t seen a car since 1998.

Many parents hold onto things for their kids.
Things they’re convinced you’ll want someday.
Family heirlooms. Furniture. Collections. Papers.

Here’s the gentle truth—
As a downsizing specialist I can tell you that downsizers are often overwhelmed by their belongings,
and some of what they’re keeping…
they’re keeping for you.
Whether you asked for it or not.

My parents keep sneaking musky smelling boxes full of my childhood treasures, that they have held onto since the 70’s and I have long forgotten about, back into my home. Unannounced and certainly with the best of intention.

I’m not joking, I found a 5 speed bicycle from the 80’s in my garage that they crept in when I wasn’t looking. A full size bicycle…. 
So its time for us to have some conversations.

These conversations aren’t about being ungrateful.
They are about clarity.

Asking things like:
“What actually matters most to you?”
“What would you really like to stay in the family?”
“Is there anything you’re holding onto because you think I want it?”

And then—this is the hard part—
we need to be honest.

If you don’t want the dining table,
or the figurines,
or the stamp collection (in my case)…
it’s far kinder to say that now
than to silently resent dealing with it later.

And then help them let go of the rest—
through donating, gifting, or selling—
which can actually feel incredibly freeing for them.

Think of it as editing the story,
not erasing it.

Conversation #2: Living-in-the-Moment Plans

This one might be my favourite—and it’s often skipped.

Before we talk logistics,
before we talk planning,
ask this:

“What do we still want to do together?”

Is there a family trip that’s been talked about for years
but never booked?
A place they’ve always wanted to see?
An experience you keep saying you’ll do one day?

And here’s your friendly reminder:
one day is now.

Health changes quietly.
Energy shifts.
And the window for these shared experiences
is precious.

This doesn’t have to mean luxury travel.
It could be:
a multi-generation trip,
a reunion,
a bucket-list destination,
or even intentional family time – like a weekly dinner or zoom call.

Memories are made now

And no one—
no one—
looks back and wishes they’d waited longer.

Conversation #3: Aging in Place or Planning Ahead

This is where things can feel uncomfortable.

Because this conversation touches independence,
identity,
and the fear of change.

But avoiding it doesn’t stop aging.
It just removes choice from the equation.

Often the signs show up quietly:
deferred maintenance,
difficulty keeping up with the home,
reluctance to use stairs,
safety concerns in bathrooms or entryways and
even a reluctance to partake in trips or activities due to a fixed income.

This means its time to ask the questions:
“Does your home still support your needs?”
“How are the stairs feeling these days?”
“Does the house feel manageable… or exhausting?”
“Is there something else you want to be doing with your time?”

These aren’t failures.
They’re signals.

The goal isn’t to force a move.
It’s to explore options before health or finances make the decision for them.

Because when these conversations happen early,
they’re calm, thoughtful, and collaborative.

When they happen late,
they’re rushed, emotional, and stressful.

Timing matters.

Conversation #4: The Legacy Spreadsheet

Okay.
Deep breath.

This is the one no one wants to talk about.
But everyone is grateful for when it exists.

A legacy spreadsheet—physical or digital—should include:
where the will is,
who the executor and power of attorney are,
insurance policy details,
financial advisor contact info,
banking institutions,
important passwords,
and yes… social media access.

You don’t need to see everything today.

But you do need to know:
where this information lives,
how to access it in an emergency,
and who to call.

Because here’s the hard truth — very few families actually take the time to organize this. And trying to grieve while simultaneously playing detective… guessing passwords, digging through filing cabinets, calling banks on hold for hours… that is an emotional weight no one should have to carry.

I recently went through this with my own parents.
It’s awkward. It feels heavy. You might want to change the subject to literally anything else.
But once it’s done? The peace of mind is priceless.

We plan for everything in society.
Airplane safety demonstrations.
Cruise ship drills.
Fire escape routes.

Yet somehow, we skip the one life drill that every single family will eventually face.

That’s why I created a Legacy Spreadsheet — and I’ll link it here so you can download it and share it with your family. It walks you through exactly what to document:
accounts to look for,
advisors and key contacts,
life insurance policies,
and yes… those all-important passwords.

And here’s the funny part.

After organizing this with my parents, I realized I didn’t know half of this information about my own husband. So guess what? We had our own “romantic evening of spreadsheets.” Nothing says love like two-factor authentication.

But truly — this isn’t about expecting the worst.

It’s about protecting the people you love from chaos during one of the hardest seasons of their lives.

Getting organized at any age means you’re thoughtful.
It means you’re responsible.
It means you’re planning with love.

In Closing

These conversations aren’t about control.
They’re about care.

In my experience as a downsizing specialist and seniors real estate specialist -

They protect dignity.
They reduce stress.
They make space for what really matters—
connection, memories, and peace of mind.

If you’re lucky enough to have parents in their seventies or eighties,
start talking now.

Not all at once.
Not perfectly.
Just honestly.

Sometimes, just opening the door
is enough.

And future-you?
They’ll be very grateful you did.

Shelley Hird
North Shore Realtor® and Downsizing Specialist
www.thedownsizingspecialist.com

Suites, Joint Purchases & Co-Living in Today’s Market

If you’ve found yourself thinking, “How on earth are our kids ever going to buy a home?”—you’re not alone.

Across the Lower Mainland, more families are quietly re-thinking what “homeownership” looks like. With rising prices, high interest rates, and a tight rental market, one question keeps coming up in my conversations with parents:

Should we help our adult kids by buying together, adding a suite, or living under one roof?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but there are smart ways to approach it, and a few serious pitfalls to avoid.

Let’s break it down.

Why This Conversation Is Happening Now

This isn’t about indulgence or entitlement—it’s about math.

Many adult children:

• Earn solid incomes but still can’t qualify alone

• Are stuck in expensive rentals with no path to saving

• Want stability but not a 40-year mortgage with roommates

Meanwhile, many parents:

• Are sitting on significant home equity

• Have larger homes than they need

• Are thinking about downsizing eventually—just not yet

That overlap is driving a surge in intergenerational housing solutions.

Option 1: Adding a Suite to Your Existing Home

Best for: Parents who want independence and a safety net for their kids.

How it works

• Parents remain owners

• Adult child lives in a legal or authorized suite

• Rent may be market-based, reduced, or replaced with cost-sharing

Pros

✔ Keeps ownership clean and simple
✔ Creates flexibility (family now, rental income later)
✔ Helps adult kids build savings
✔ Increases resale value in many North Shore neighborhoods

Watch out for

⚠ Zoning and permitting requirements
⚠ Construction costs (often higher than expected)
⚠ Lifestyle boundaries—shared driveways, noise, guests

Pro tip: Even with family, treat this like a business arrangement. Clear expectations save relationships.

Option 2: Joint Purchase (Buying Together)

Best for: Families who are aligned financially and emotionally.

How it works

• Parents and adult children purchase a home together

• Ownership is shared (often as tenants in common)

• Equity and responsibilities are clearly defined upfront

Pros

✔ Makes larger or better-located homes possible
✔ Reduces borrowing pressure on kids
✔ Allows parents to “age in place” with support
✔ Can be more tax-efficient than gifting cash

Watch out for

⚠ Exit strategies (what happens if someone wants out?)
⚠ Relationship changes (marriage, divorce, job relocation)
⚠ Estate planning complexity

Non-negotiable: Legal advice before you buy. Not after.

Option 3: Purpose-Built Co-Living or Multi-Generational Homes

Best for: Families planning long-term, not temporary solutions.

How it works

• Purchase a home designed for separation and privacy

• Separate entrances, kitchens, living spaces

• Often includes future downsizing flexibility

Pros

✔ Built-in independence
✔ Shared costs without shared lifestyles
✔ Supports caregiving as parents age
✔ Increasingly attractive for resale

Watch out for

⚠ Limited inventory
⚠ Higher upfront price
⚠ Requires honest conversations about boundaries

This option works best when it’s intentional, not reactive.

The Emotional Side (The Part No One Likes to Talk About)

This decision isn’t just financial—it’s deeply emotional.

Parents often worry:

• Am I enabling or empowering?

• Will this delay their independence?

• What if this strains our relationship?

Adult kids often worry:

• Will I ever truly own something myself?

• Am I failing because I need help?

• Will I feel like a tenant forever?

The families who succeed are the ones who:

• Talk openly about expectations

• Put agreements in writing

• Revisit the plan every few years

Housing should support relationships—not test them.

Questions to Ask Before You Say Yes

Before moving forward, I encourage families to answer these honestly:

1. Is this a short-term bridge or a long-term plan?

2. What happens if someone wants to sell, move, or needs cash?

3. How will expenses, maintenance, and decisions be handled?

4. Have we spoken to a lawyer and a financial advisor?

5. Are we doing this out of fear—or strategy?

If the answers feel fuzzy, slow down. That’s a sign you need more clarity, not more urgency.

This Can Be Smart—If Done Right

Helping adult kids buy into a home is no longer unusual—it’s becoming a strategic housing solution in high-cost markets like ours.

When done thoughtfully, it can:

• Preserve family wealth

• Reduce stress across generations

• Create flexibility for future downsizing

When done emotionally or without planning, it can:

• Complicate estates

• Strain relationships

• Limit future choices

If this conversation is coming up in your family, it’s worth approaching it with guidance—not assumptions.

Looking for Detached Homes With Suites?

If part of your plan involves buying a detached home with an existing suite—or the potential to add one—finding the right property matters more than ever.

Not all suites are created equal.

Some are:

• Fully legal and mortgage-friendly

• Older “in-law” suites that need updates

• Great layouts on paper but challenging for real-life privacy

• Zoned correctly now but limited for future flexibility

This is where experience really counts.

👉 [View current detached homes with suites here]
(North Shore listings curated with multi-generational living in mind)

How I Can Help Your Family Navigate This

As a Realtor who works extensively with:

• Downsizers

• Multi-generational families

• Parents helping adult children enter the market

…I help families think beyond the purchase.

That includes:

• Evaluating suite legality, zoning, and resale impact

• Identifying homes that support future downsizing or exit strategies

• Connecting you with trusted legal, mortgage, and renovation professionals

• Helping everyone get on the same page before emotions run the show

This isn’t just about buying a house—it’s about setting your family up for flexibility, harmony, and long-term success.

If you’re exploring options or just starting the conversation, I’m always happy to be a sounding board.

👉 Explore detached homes with suites or book a consultation here

Final Thought

Helping adult children buy into a home can be a smart, strategic move—but only when it’s approached with clarity, structure, and the right support.

The goal isn’t just affordability.
It’s freedom, stability, and options—for everyone involved.

Shelley Hird
North Shore Realtor® and Downsizing Specialist
www.shelleyhird.com

When I sit down with people who are considering downsizing, I don’t just see square footage and storage bins — I see real lives in transition. Some of these transitions unfold with ease, excitement, and clarity. Others are full of avoidable heartache and frustration. Over the years as a Downsizing Specialist on the North Shore of Vancouver, I’ve started to recognize patterns: the most common missteps that slow people down, and the surprising wins they experience once they finally make the move.

Let’s walk through the five biggest downsizing mistakes I see — and then the three biggest benefits families consistently tell me they’re grateful for afterward.

1. Waiting Too Long

This is the number one hesitation I see: people put off downsizing until a crisis hits — a health scare, a fall on the stairs, a financial stress point, or a loved one who suddenly can’t live independently anymore. When downsizing is reactionary rather than planned, both the emotional load and the financial pressure spike.

By contrast, planning ahead gives you time to make thoughtful decisions — instead of rushed ones.

And you’re not alone in your reasons for considering a move. According to Statistics Canada, among Canadians aged 56 and older who moved, the top reasons were reducing housing costs (27.3%), being closer to family (19.1%), and health considerations (12.7%). It’s that last one — health and mobility — that I see most often.

2. Collecting Too Much Stuff

Clutter isn’t just a physical problem — it’s a psychological barrier. I see people hesitate to even start the downsizing conversation because they’re overwhelmed by what’s in their basements, garages, closets, and attics.

Here’s the kicker: in a recent Canadian survey, more than 70 percent of Canadians said they were bothered by clutter in their homes, and many don’t know what to do with it or feel too overwhelmed to begin.

That emotional load — combined with sheer volume — can paralyze decision-making. But small chunks of sorting, paired with the right support, quickly create momentum.

3. Not Knowing Where to Start

This often shows up in two ways:

• “Who do I call first?”

• “I don’t want to burden a real estate agent yet.”

I hear both of these more than you’d think. Without a clear first step, people freeze.

When you work with a downsizing specialist from the beginning, you get that roadmap:

• What professionals you’ll need (organizers, estate sale advisors, movers).

• What costs to expect.

• A step-by-step plan so you know why you’re doing each thing, not just what you’re doing.

And sometimes people simply don’t ask for help because they don’t want to feel like they’re “not capable.” That’s normal. But it’s also exactly why guides and specialists exist — to lighten that load and make the process empowering instead of overwhelming.

4. Skipping a Detailed Financial or Estate Plan

Downsizing isn’t just about the space you live in; it’s about the life you want next. Too often, families focus only on the home sale and forget to align that with retirement cash flow, taxes, estate planning, and long-term financial security.

A fee-for-service financial planner, like those at Parallel Wealth ( www.parallelwealth.com ) or similar firms, can help map out a clear picture of your retirement needs versus your downsized lifestyle goals — so you’re not left guessing whether the move gives you the freedom you imagined. This fee-for-service option provides an expert in retirement and estate planning outside of the bank or wealth management firm that you invest with and can provide a clear path for the timing of downsizing, tax strategies, the start of Canadian benefits and how to legacy plan with your estate wishes in mind.

When you treat your downsizing as a strategic financial step — not just a real estate transaction — the confidence and clarity that come with it are transformational.

5. Not Taking Time to Dream

People spend decades dreaming about what they did with their homes — family dinners, kids’ rooms, holiday gatherings — but far fewer imagine what they might do next.

Downsizing isn’t the end of a story; it’s the beginning of a new one. I’ve seen clients light up when they start to picture a kitchen they love instead of a basement they dread. Or an art studio instead of a garden shed. Or travel plans instead of weekend chores.

A little dreaming — early and often — makes the whole process feel purposeful instead of burdensome.

3 Surprising Benefits People Tell Me They Wish They Had Experienced Sooner

Even with all the hesitation and emotional tug, once clients settle into their new space they often tell me the same thing:

1. “I Wish We Had Done This Sooner.”

People often underestimate how much better daily life feels in a well-right-sized home — until they finally experience it. A smaller home doesn’t mean less life; it often means better life.

2. New Hobbies and Passions Emerge

One of my favourite trends? People trade time spent maintaining space for time spent enjoying life. I’ve seen clients discover pottery classes, painting, weekend travel circles, new exercise interests, and even writing projects they’d tucked away for years.

Concerned that he may not thrive without tinkering in the garage? A new found interest in cooking may emerge and replace that hobby with a new one!

Instead of spending weekends mowing lawns and fixing gutters, suddenly there’s time for the things that feed the soul.

3. A Newfound Sense of Freedom, Peace of Mind, and Joy

This one echoes across generations and personalities: downsizing gives people breathing room — literally and figuratively.

Financial peace of mind, less physical upkeep, mornings without a million chores, evenings that feel restful instead of rushed — that’s not just convenience. That’s a quality-of-life upgrade.

If you’re standing at the downsizing crossroads, know this: with the right plan, support, and mindset, what feels daunting today becomes the launchpad for a more joyful, intentional tomorrow.

If you want to talk through where to start or how to make a plan that feels good — I’m here to help.

Shelley Hird
North Shore Realtor® and Downsizing Specialist
604.209.4855
www.shelleyhird.com

Is A Downsizing Consultation Right For You?

If downsizing has been on your mind, even quietly, you may be wondering where to begin, who to talk to, and whether now is the “right” time.

A downsizing consultation is designed to answer those questions without pressure, timelines, or expectations. It is a starting point, not a commitment.

Here’s what you can expect.

First, What a Downsizing Consultation Really Is

A downsizing consultation is a calm, informative conversation focused on clarity.

It is not about listing your home.
It is not about making decisions on the spot.
And it is not about being told what you should do.

Instead, it’s an opportunity to step back, look at the bigger picture, and understand what options actually exist,  financially, practically, and lifestyle-wise — so you can make decisions when you’re ready.

Many people come to this conversation months or even years before making a move. That is not only okay,  it’s ideal.

Who a Downsizing Consultation Is For

This type of consultation is especially helpful if:

• Your home feels like more work than joy
• You’re thinking ahead but not in a rush
• You’re unsure whether downsizing makes financial sense
• You want to explore options without committing to anything
• You want trusted, local insight,  not generic advice

If you’ve ever thought, “I just want to understand my options,” this is for you.

What We Talk About During the Consultation

Every conversation is different, but typically we explore:

Your Current Home & Lifestyle
How you’re using your space now, what feels heavy, and what still works.

What You Want More (and Less) Of
Less maintenance? More flexibility? Proximity to family? Travel-friendly living? This helps guide future decisions.

Timing — Without Pressure
Whether your timeline is now, later, or simply “someday,” we talk about what makes sense based on your comfort level.

Next Step Downsizing Options on the North Shore
Condos, townhomes, age-friendly properties, or alternative arrangements — tailored to your goals.

Financial Considerations
Equity, costs, market context, and what a potential move could realistically look like, explained clearly and calmly.

Just as Important: What This Consultation Is Not

There is no requirement to list your home.
There is no obligation to take the next step.
There is no expectation to make decisions.

It’s about understanding your options. 
No forced timeline.
Just honest guidance, at your pace. 

What You Walk Away With

Most people leave a downsizing consultation with:

✔ A clearer understanding of their options
✔ Confidence about what’s possible — and what’s not
✔ A sense of direction, even if the move is far off
✔ Relief from the mental load of “not knowing”

And very often, one simple thought:
“I wish we’d had this conversation sooner”

Why This Conversation Matters

Downsizing is easier , both emotionally and financially,  when it’s planned thoughtfully rather than rushed by life events, health changes, or stress.

Having this conversation early gives you time, choice, and control.

And whether your next move is six months away or five years away, clarity now makes every future decision easier.

Ready to Start With a Conversation?

If you’ve been wondering what your next chapter could look like, a downsizing consultation is a meaningful place to begin.

No pressure.
No obligation.
Just honest guidance, at your pace.

If you’d like to book a consultation or learn more, reach out anytime.
I’m always happy to start with a conversation.

Shelley Hird
North Shore Realtor®, Downsizing Specialist and SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist Certified)
604.209.4855
www.shelleyhird.com

Let’s take a look at what the actual numbers in North Vancouver are telling us and what that could mean for your next move, especially if you’re thinking about downsizing and simplifying life in 2026.

December 2025 North Vancouver Snapshot (MLS data):

• Average sold price in North Vancouver in December for a Single Detached Home was about $2,041,600, with homes taking on average 47 days on market. There were 223 Single Detached Homes on the market with 25 Sales in December.

• Across Metro Vancouver, December saw lower overall sales compared with last year, but listings were up — meaning choices abound for buyers, and strategic pricing matters more than ever.

These numbers tell a story that may feel familiar if you’re watching market trends closely: sellers have options, buyers have choice, and pricing strategy + presentation = traction in 2026.

Here’s the honest real estate reality — North Vancouver edition

If you’re thinking about selling — here is what’s working right now:

1️⃣ Buyers have options
North Vancouver’s inventory is healthy, and buyers can be choosy. That’s great news for downsizers who prepare well and price wisely — your property can stand out in a sea of listings.

2️⃣ This market doesn’t care about emotions — only value.
Your memories, upgrades, or sentiment don’t show up on MLS. What matters is: what a qualified buyer is willing to pay today. The sooner we align expectations with reality, the sooner you unlock your next phase.

3️⃣ Marketing amplifies good pricing, but can’t fix bad pricing.
Even the best photos, staging, drone shots, and storytelling won’t sell a home that’s priced above its market sweet spot. Think of pricing like positioning — the right spot gets attention. The wrong spot gets stagnation.

4️⃣ Patience is a strategic advantage.
In December we saw homes selling in ~ 47 days on average locally — not overnight, but certainly not an eternity. Smartly prepared homes are moving, and if you’re aiming for a spring 2026 sale, now is the time to start shaping your strategy.

5️⃣ Expect a bump or two.
Yes contracts can fall through — that happens in markets where buyers are weighing choices carefully. The difference between stress and success is prepared expectations and resilient optimism.

6️⃣ You’re not alone in this.
This is your move, your life chapter, and I’m right beside you. We map it out, strategize the best approach and when you feel ready, we hit play - seamlessly and stress-free.

Now the good news — because there is good news

Despite all the nuance, North Vancouver homes still sold in December 2025:

✔ Sellers found success — even in winter.
✔ Average sale prices held firm in a broad, balanced market.
✔ Buyers are still active and ready when value and fit align.

And here’s why 2026 is worth being optimistic about:

Lower borrowing costs, growing buyer confidence, and seasonal momentum typically kick in before the spring rush. There’s a real chance that the first half of 2026 sees increased activity, especially from buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines. (Historic patterns and regional forecasts support this trend.

For downsizers in particular? This is a moment to act with clarity, not urgency.
A balanced market means:

• More thoughtfully paced negotiating between buyers and sellers,
• More time to prepare your home to look its best,
• And the ability to choose where you’re going next — whether that’s a cozy condo, a 55+ community, or a modern strata home with less upkeep.

Bottom line:
Homes are selling here in North Vancouver — even in slower months — when pricing, presentation, and positioning align.

If you’re thinking about selling or downsizing in 2026, let’s chat about what this market means for you, how to set your home up for success and how we can make your next chapter the best one yet.

Shelley Hird
North Shore REALTOR® and Downsizing Specialist
www.shelleyhird.com

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