“Often it isn't the mountains ahead that wear you out, it's the little pebble in your shoe.” — Muhammad Ali

That quote has always stuck with me. It reminds me of the quiet, persistent things in life that weigh us down — the leaky faucet we keep meaning to fix, the extra room no one uses, the stairs that feel a little steeper each year. When it comes to our homes, it's often not one big reason that gets us thinking about change — it's the build-up of small ones.

Over the years, I’ve worked with many people across Greater Vancouver who made the decision to downsize — not just to save space, but to gain peace of mind. Their stories are different, but the motivation is often the same: to solve problems and create a lifestyle that feels more aligned with where they are now, not where they were 10 or 20 years ago.

Here are some of the most common “pebbles” that push people to consider a smaller, simpler home:

1. High Maintenance Costs

Larger homes come with bigger utility bills, higher repair costs, and constant upkeep. If your weekends are filled with mowing lawns, cleaning gutters, and fixing things around the house, downsizing can offer welcome relief — and a much lighter expense sheet.

2. Time Constraints

Your time is valuable. If home maintenance is taking you away from hobbies, grandkids, travel plans, or just enjoying a slow morning coffee, it may be time to reconsider how your home is serving you.

3. The Empty Nest

When the kids move out, the house can start to feel more like a storage unit than a home. Many downsizers tell me they don’t need four bedrooms and a rec room anymore — just a cozy, manageable space that reflects the lifestyle they live today.

4. Financial Flexibility

Downsizing can significantly reduce monthly costs — from your mortgage or property taxes to heating bills and strata fees. For many, this financial breathing room opens up possibilities: early retirement, travel, investing, or simply sleeping better at night.

5. Desire for Simplicity

There’s something powerful about letting go of what you no longer need. A smaller home encourages a simpler, more intentional way of living. Less clutter. Fewer distractions. More room for the things (and people) that matter.

6. Health and Mobility

Stairs, uneven walkways, or large homes can become a challenge with age or health issues. Many downsizers are choosing homes that offer single-level living, elevators, or better accessibility so they can stay independent and safe for years to come.

 7. Lifestyle First

Downsizing isn’t just about what you leave behind — it’s about what you move toward. Whether that’s a walkable community, social activities, access to healthcare, or a lock-and-leave condo so you can travel more, smaller living can often mean bigger living in all the right ways.

8. Living Lighter

Many homeowners are also thinking about sustainability. A smaller footprint often means a smaller carbon footprint. Downsizing is one way to align your living space with your values, especially if you’re conscious of your environmental impact.

So… Is It Time?

The decision to downsize is deeply personal. It’s not about age — it’s about alignment. Does your current home support your life today, or are you spending time and money on things that no longer serve you?

If you’ve been noticing those little pebbles — the extra space, the maintenance, the stairs, the bills — you don’t have to wait until they become mountains. Downsizing is about designing your next chapter on purpose, rather than letting it unfold by default.

What to Put in Storage When Selling Your Home: A Room-by-Room Guide

Preparing your home for sale isn’t just about cleaning — it’s about creating a space that feels calm, spacious, and easy for buyers to picture themselves in. One of the best ways to achieve this? Thoughtful, strategic decluttering.

Here’s a practical, room-by-room breakdown of what to put in storage before listing your home.

Living Room

• Oversized or extra furniture (e.g. large recliners or sectionals)

• Personal collections like books, vinyl records, or figurines

• Excess throw pillows or blankets

• Family photos, children’s artwork, or personalized items

• Dated or overly themed wall art

Staging Tip: Keep the layout clean and minimal. A few well-placed pieces are enough to define the room without overwhelming it.

Kitchen

• Rarely used appliances (juicers, waffle makers, etc.)

• Duplicate or mismatched dishware and utensils

• Counter clutter: knife blocks, drying racks, spice collections

• Fridge magnets, calendars, and personal notes

Staging Tip: Clear surfaces help kitchens appear more spacious. Aim for a tidy look with one or two decorative items at most.

Bedrooms

• Off-season clothing and extra footwear

• Cluttered nightstands or dressers

• Personal photos, keepsakes, or trophies

• Hobby supplies, workout gear, or children’s toys

Staging Tip: Bedrooms should feel restful and organized. Think clean lines, neutral bedding, and minimal decor—more hotel suite than lived-in space.

Bathrooms

• Extra towels, mats, and shower caddies

• Personal products and non-essential toiletries

• Over-the-counter medications or grooming tools

Staging Tip: A few high-quality towels, a new bar of soap, and a small candle go a long way toward creating a spa-like feel.

Garage, Basement, and Storage Areas

• Seasonal items (holiday decor, snow gear, camping equipment)

• Tools and yard equipment not needed immediately

• Bulky bins and moving boxes

• Bulk household supplies

Important: These areas often influence a buyer’s sense of how much usable storage the home offers. Avoid cramming them with overflow.

What Not to Pack Away

While it’s important to streamline, don’t strip the home of character or function entirely. Here’s what should stay:

• Core furniture: Keep the main living, dining, and primary bedroom fully furnished to help define key areas.

• Well-chosen decor: A few modern, neutral pieces can enhance light and add style without distracting.

• Lighting: Table and floor lamps can brighten dark corners and make rooms feel more inviting.

Storage Options

If you’re wondering where to keep everything, consider these practical options:

• Self-Storage Units: Ideal for short-term use. Choose climate-controlled if storing sensitive items like electronics or photos.

• Portable Storage Pods: Convenient and flexible. They can be delivered to your driveway and picked up later.

• Friends or Family: A good, cost-effective option if someone nearby has garage or basement space.

Smart Packing Tips

• Label each box clearly with its contents and destination room.

• Don’t overcrowd your closets or garage — buyers will look.

• Group items by category or room to simplify your move later.

The Takeaway

Decluttering and storing the right items isn’t just about appearance — it’s a strategic step that helps your home feel more spacious, functional, and market-ready. It improves listing photos, minimizes distractions, and allows buyers to focus on the home itself.

Start early, pack smart, and you’ll not only make your home more appealing to buyers — you’ll make your own move a whole lot easier when the time comes.