So, you’ve decided to downsize—goodbye sprawling square footage, hello streamlined living! Whether you’re making the move to simplify life or embrace a more efficient lifestyle, downsizing can be a rewarding experience… if done correctly. However, without proper planning, downsizing can turn from a dream into a daunting task. Don’t worry—we’re here to help you avoid the most common pitfalls.
Overestimating the Financial Savings
One of the most common mistakes people make when downsizing is overestimating how much money they’ll save. Sure, a smaller home typically means lower utility costs and potentially a smaller mortgage, but other expenses like moving, renovations, and increased property taxes in certain areas can eat into those savings. It’s crucial to do a full financial breakdown before assuming downsizing will drastically reduce your costs.
Working with an experienced Realtor® like Clinton Howell can help you find a home that aligns with your budget while considering all the hidden costs.
Focusing Only on the Size of the Home
Another common mistake is focusing too much on the size of the home and not enough on its functionality. Downsizing shouldn’t just mean choosing a smaller space—it should mean finding a home that works for your lifestyle. Do you have enough storage? Does the layout support your needs? Are there rooms or features that will still be important to you in the years to come? It’s essential to look at the complete picture, not just square footage.
Not Planning Ahead
Not planning ahead can turn your downsizing journey into a logistical nightmare. Downsizing requires more than just looking for houses for sale—it means getting rid of excess belongings, organizing finances, and having a clear strategy for the move itself. Create a timeline, and don’t rush the process. Planning will help you avoid stress and keep your downsizing experience smooth and manageable.
Forgetting to Factor in Future Needs
Your future self will thank you if you take long-term needs into account when downsizing. Many people downsize based on their current lifestyle, forgetting to consider how their needs may evolve over time. Is your new home accessible as you age? Are you near key amenities or family? Thinking ahead ensures you’ll be comfortable not just now, but for years to come.
Not Researching the Market
Finally, don’t make the mistake of diving into the real estate market without proper research. The market can fluctuate, and what might seem like a great deal today could be overpriced tomorrow. Knowing when to buy and having a clear understanding of market trends is crucial to getting the best value for your money.
Partnering with a local expert like Clinton Howell ensures you have up-to-date market insights, giving you an advantage when navigating Burlington homes for sale or houses for sale in Burlington.
Ready to Downsize? Let’s Make It a Breeze!
Downsizing can be an exciting new chapter in your life if done thoughtfully. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make the transition smoother, more cost-effective, and ultimately more rewarding. If you’re ready to explore Burlington homes for sale or need expert advice on downsizing, Clinton Howell is here to guide you through the process with ease.
Contact Clinton Howell today and start your journey toward a more streamlined, fulfilling living space!
Top Burlington and Surrounding Events December 2024
Lights from the Rooftop | Joseph Brant Museum
Date: Nov 29 – Jan 2, 2025, 6 pm – 8 pm
Location: 1240 North Shore Blvd E, Burlington, ON L7S 1C5
Visit Joseph Brant Museum for “Lights from the Rooftop” this holiday season! Enjoy a view of the Burlington Festival of Lights from the Rooftop Terrace at Joseph Brant Museum during the Candlelit Stroll on November 29 and every other Thursday evening from December 5 to January 2, 6 pm – 8 pm.* We’ll be serving FREE hot chocolate and popcorn
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Burlington Festival of Lights
Date: November 29th to January 8th – 4pm to midnight daily
Location: Spencer Smith Park
Are you ready to take in the magic of the Festival of Lights? It’s the most wonderful time of the year to visit at Spencer Smith Park and walk through the twinkling lights. With over 50 displays to enjoy, this is a must-see event with friends and family!
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Santa Claus Parade
Date: Sunday, December 1st – 2 pm
Location: Downtown Burlington
Santa Claus is coming to town on a new route for 2024! Due to road construction happening along the existing parade route, the City of Burlington must change the route for 2024. This also presents an opportunity to make the route shorter, which is something many residents have requested. The parade will end on Brant Street at Blairholm Avenue, with the dismantling zone moving onto private property.
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A Night at Ireland House
Date: Dec 6, 2024, 6 pm & 7:30 pm.
Location: 2168 Guelph Line, Burlington, ON L7P 5A8
Eat, drink and be merry! Step back in time and celebrate the holidays during “A Night At Ireland House.” Guests will spend the evening sampling traditional Victorian foods served from the hearth and woodstove while touring the historic house. There will also be the opportunity to sip local wine and craft beer along the way while listening to carolers
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Breakfast with Santa
Date: December 7, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Ancaster Fairgrounds
Join us for our Breakfast with Santa fundraiser on December 7th! Enjoy a festive morning filled with delicious food, fun activities, and the magic of the season! 🎉
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Visit with Santa in Downtown Oakville
Date: Dec 07, 2024, 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Centennial Square , 120 Navy St, Oakville
Santa will roam the streets of Downtown between 2PM-3PM, followed by booked appointments at his cottage in Centennial Square. All proceeds collected will support the United Way of Halton.
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Oakville Christmas Market
Date: Sunday, December 8 · 10 am – 3 pm EST
Location: 79 Jones Street Oakville, ON L6L 3E6
Handcrafted gift, Holiday decor, Delicious seasonal treats, Unique products from local vendors.
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Ancaster Christmas Craft & Vendor Show
Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024 10:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m
Location: Ancaster Fairgrounds
The Ancaster Christmas Craft Show returns on December 14, 2024! Mark your calendar and join us for this festive event. Admission is $6.00 per person (free for children under 10). Support local small businesses and get your holiday shopping done all in one place!
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Christmas in the Woods
Date: December 15 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Westfield Heritage Village’s Christmas in the Woods
The Village will be decorated for the season with swags, greenery and old-fashioned decorations, and offers delightful activities inside and out. Christmas baking, carol singing, Father Christmas, and a model train diorama will delight visitors. Dress for the weather and enjoy the great outdoors with wagon rides, free popcorn, scavenger hunt, and a lovely walk in the winter forest. Then warm up by the roaring fire, while enjoying some old-fashioned Christmas treats. The General Store and Gift Shop will be open, and the Ironwood will have delicious light refreshments available.
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Westdale Family Movies – White Christmas
Date: Sunday, December 15th 1:30pm-3:30pm, Wednesday December 18th 6:15pm – 8pm & Tuesday December 24th 4pm-6pm
Location: The Westdale Theatre: 1014 King Street West, Hamilton
After World War II, song and dance men Bob Wallace and Phil Davis form a successful partnership, eventually becoming top Broadway producers. Bob agrees to take in a nightclub act by the Haynes Sisters, Betty and Judy, as a favour (so he thinks), for their brother who served with Bob and Phil in the war. While Phil realizes that Bob has become smitten with Betty, he arranges for them to accompany the sisters to their next show at a small inn in Vermont. Little do they realize that the owner of the inn is Major General Tom Waverley, their old commanding officer, who is unfortunately on the verge of shutting down his beloved inn if the snow prevents people from attending the show. They come up with a plan for a Christmas show to help the Major General out, but a misunderstanding leads to a rift between Bob and Betty, leaving it to Phil and Judy to try and get them back together.
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