Why Is Etobicoke Great for Downsizing?

On paper, downsizing sounds simple. Sell your family home and move to a smaller place. In reality, things can get a lot more complicated. 

For one, it’s not that easy to let go of a home you’ve lived and raised a family in for many years. The emotional aspect of downsizing is challenging enough. Add a stressful and unpredictable real estate market, and it’s enough to want to hit the pause button on everything. 

However, once the task of downsizing is over and done with, it can be an exciting fresh start. Not having a large, expensive home to maintain can free up so much of your time and money, allowing you to live your life to the fullest. And, for lifelong Etobicoke residents, you don’t even have to leave the city you know and love because the perfect solution may be literally right around the corner. Should you start thinking about downsizing in Etobicoke? Here are a few reasons to consider it.

Downsizing Doesn’t Mean You’re Old

Many empty nesters are only in their late 40s or early 50s when the kids head off to university. That’s far from old, but it may mean that your family home now feels gigantic and empty. Moving to a smaller house in the same city can be one of the most rewarding choices you make. You can still reap the benefits of living in Etobicoke while having more time and resources to enjoy its many amenities and activities.

Young couples are also downsizing. With the rising costs of everything, they often feel financially overextended and want less debt. So they decide to simply their lives and by downsizing when their mortgage renewal comes up.

Sometimes, downsizing isn’t a choice. A divorce or job loss may mean it’s time to sell and move on.

And, of course, many downsizers are senior citizens who no longer want to maintain a large home but still want the familiarity and comfort of staying close to their family.

Downsizing can be a lifestyle choice or a necessity. Nevertheless, moving to a smaller home or finding something more affordable doesn’t necessarily mean giving up all Etobicoke has to offer.

Want to know more about the current market in Etobicoke? A few of our recent posts will help you make informed decisions:

• What Is Going On In The Etobicoke Real Estate Market Today?
• Can You Still Buy A House In Etobicoke For Under $1 Million?
• How to Find Great School Options in Etobicoke

Access to Excellent Schools

Are children still in the picture? If so, access to high-quality education is likely one of your top priorities. Downsizing in search of a more affordable lifestyle should never have to mean sacrificing education, which is just one more reason to stay right here in Etobicoke. 

As part of the Toronto District School Board, Etobicoke’s public education system is one of the best in Canada. Many of its elementary and secondary schools have earned impeccably high ratings from the Fraser Institute. In addition, you will also find many reputable private schools, such as Kingsway College.

Even if you don’t have children at home, there are still benefits to owning a house near highly sought-after schools. The communities tend to be safer, more peaceful, and often have better access to amenities like healthcare and transit. In addition, access to high-quality schools has a positive impact on real estate values, making a home in Etobicoke an excellent investment. 

Walkability

A high degree of walkability is another understated benefit of Etobicoke living, making it the ideal spot to downsize at every age. Even if you have a car, walking is still good for your mind, body, and soul. With gas prices on the rise, walking can even be better for your wallet!

In Etobicoke, you’ll find it easy to walk to restaurants, stores, parks, and other activities, giving you an excellent excuse to get out of the house during beautiful weather. Alternatively, you can walk to public transit, which will take you nearly anywhere else you want to go. 

Commuter Convenience

Etobicoke has an excellent public transit system, with several Go Train stations and access to subways and the TTC. Travelling to downtown Toronto, Mississauga, or Oakville is a breeze. If you drive, you’ll have ready access to the QEW and the 403, which makes getting in and out of the city easy and convenient.

Numerous Real Estate Options

The vast and diverse real estate market in Etobicoke is a massive draw to families of all types, whether upsizing or downsizing. Your housing options include a variety of structures and price points. Condos, townhouses, and small bungalows are just the beginning. You will also find facilities geared toward seniors and a selection of renovated smaller homes that are the perfect turnkey solution, ideal for seniors or anyone looking for a stress-free, seamless transition.

For example, the condos at 1/2 Aberfoyle are quickly becoming popular among retirees even though they are not technically a seniors building. They are connected to all amenities, including the subway, Sobeys, pharmacies, Service Ontario, and medical buildings. Plus, they offer a sense of community with many events and clubs where you can explore new interests and meet new people. 

Looking for more practical advice for a seamless downsizing experience? The resources below will help:

• Essential Decisions to Make Before You Downsize
• Is It Better To Buy Or Rent After Downsizing?
• A Practical Guide To Downsizing

A City Surrounded by Nature

Where can you go when you want to revel in the peaceful tranquillity of nature, even if it’s just for an hour or two? You don’t have to drive very far or even leave the city for a scenic escape. Just check out the trails by the Humber River and Mimico Creek that run through some of Etobicoke’s picturesque neighbourhoods.

To the South, you’ll find Lake Ontario, with a boardwalk where you can stroll to take in the scenery, stop for a coffee, and relax as you gaze out over the water. This perfect combination of convenience, community, and beautiful surroundings is precisely why so many families, downsizers, and empty nesters are proud to call Etobicoke home.

Do you want to further explore your options for downsizing in Etobicoke? We are happy to help. Reach out today to 416-450-5900 or jody@thompsonsells.com with any questions or to get started.