Downsizing isn’t just about moving into a smaller home — it’s about simplifying your life, freeing up equity, and choosing a space that truly fits the way you live now.

Whether you’re an empty nester, preparing for retirement, or simply ready for less upkeep, here’s a step-by-step guide to downsizing that makes the process manageable and intentional.

Step 1: Get Clear on Why You’re Downsizing

Before touching a single box, clarify your motivation. This will guide every decision.

Common reasons include:

• Reducing maintenance and costs

• Freeing up home equity

• Being closer to family or amenities

• Eliminating stairs or large yards

• Simplifying daily life

Tip: Write down your top 3 priorities, they’ll keep you focused when decisions feel emotional.

Get a very clear picture of what you would like this next chapter to look like.

Step 2: Understand Your Financial Picture

Downsizing often improves cash flow, but only if you plan correctly.

Key questions to answer:

• What is your current home worth in today’s market?

• How much equity will you have after selling?

• What price range makes sense for your next home?

• What monthly costs do you want going forward?

A real estate professional can run scenarios so you understand the numbers before you make a move. Call me, I’m happy to go over the numbers at any time with no obligation, no pressure.

Step 3: Decide Where You Want to Live Next

This step is about lifestyle, not square footage.

Consider:

• Condo vs. bungalow vs. townhome

• Proximity to healthcare, shopping, and transit

• Walkability

• Community feel

• Future accessibility needs

Pro tip: Drive and walk the neighborhoods at different times of day. The feel matters just as much as the floor plan. Again, have a vision of what you would like the next chapter to look like.

Step 4: Start Decluttering Early (Earlier Than You Think)

This is where most people underestimate the time involved.

Use the 4-pile method:

1. Keep

2. Donate

3. Sell

4. Let go

Start with:

• Storage rooms

• Closets

• Basements

• Garages

You don’t need to rush, steady consistent progress beats last-minute stress.  

More declutter tips: How to Declutter Your Home in Quick and Easy Steps A clutter-free home can improve mental clarity, reduce stress, and make daily tasks easier.

Step 5: Measure Before You Move

Downsizing isn’t about bringing everything with you. 

Before committing to a new home:

• Get floor plans

• Measure furniture

• Decide what truly fits your next space

📏 This avoids paying to move furniture you won’t use or that won’t fit.

Step 6: Prepare Your Current Home for Sale

A well-prepared home sells faster and for more.

Focus on:

• Decluttering to create space

• Light cosmetic updates (paint, lighting)

• Minor repairs

• Professional staging (let’s chat to see if we need to look at this option)

Your goal is to help buyers imagine their future — not see your past.

Step 7: Time the Sale and Purchase Strategically

Coordinating a downsize takes planning.

Options include:

• Selling first, then buying

• Buying first, then selling

• Using a flexible possession date

A professional can help you minimize stress, avoid carrying two homes, and keep your move well-timed.

Step 8: Lean on Professional Support

Downsizing can be very emotional — and that’s completely normal.

The right team can help with:

• Market timing and pricing

• Coordinating movers and decluttering services

• Negotiating favourable terms

• Keeping the process organized and calm

You don’t have to do this alone.

Step 9: Embrace the Next Chapter

Once you’re settled, most downsizers say the same thing:

“I wish I had done this sooner.”

Less space often means:

• Less maintenance

• Lower costs

• More freedom

• More time for what matters

Downsizing isn’t about giving things up — it’s about gaining peace of mind.

Downsizing works best when it’s done thoughtfully, not reactively.

With a clear plan, the right guidance, and time on your side, it can be one of the most rewarding real estate decisions you make.

If you’re considering downsizing and want honest advice, smart planning, and zero pressure, speaking with an experienced local real estate professional can make all the difference. 

Perceived Value + Appeal

• In higher-end homes or with golf-enthusiast buyers, a well-designed, integrated simulator can boost perceived home value, often quoted by real estate and design sources at $30,000–$75,000+ in added perceived value when done well. At a cost from $30,000 - $175,000. DIY cost for less than $5,000.

• They make your home stand out from competition, especially in markets where buyers are looking for unique lifestyle amenities.

Not a Guaranteed Price Increase

• Unlike traditional upgrades (e.g., kitchens or baths), a simulator won’t automatically raise the official appraised value or increase resale price dollar-for-dollar for all buyers.

• Some buyers may view a dedicated golf room as niche or too specialized, potentially narrowing the buyer pool rather than broadening it.

When a Simulator Does Add Value

If it is professionally integrated into the home

• The simulator room looks like part of the home’s architectural design, not an afterthought.

• Ceiling height, lighting, ventilation, and finishes match the home’s style.

• The home has the extra room for it.

If the simulator serves multiple functions

• Bonus room, media space, fitness room, or entertainment space (not just golf).

• This versatility appeals to a broader range of buyers.

In mid+/luxury price segments

• Buyers at higher price points often expect extra lifestyle features (home gyms, theaters, etc.).

When It Might Not Add Value

Niche appeal

• Some buyers may not care about golf or prefer open, flexible floor plans rather than a dedicated simulator room.

Poor execution

• A cheap projector hanging from a basement beam looks like a hobby setup, not a value-adding renovation.

• A simulator smack in the middle of the home.

• Low ceilings, cluttered spaces, or box-like rooms make it feel like a useful but disposable feature.

How Realtors Think About It

Real estate professionals generally see golf simulators similarly to:

• Home theaters

• Wine cellars

• Home gyms

These are features that enhance lifestyle appeal and can make your home more attractive — especially to certain buyers — but they don’t have consistent, measurable ROI like kitchens or bathrooms.

Summary: Value Drivers in Calgary

Bottom line:
A golf simulator can increase perceived value and buyer interest in higher-value Calgary homes but it’s not a guaranteed resale price booster on its own. It works best when integrated as part of a high-quality, multi-purpose lifestyle space that broadens buyer appeal rather than restricting it.

Tips to Maximize Value If You’re Installing One

✔️ Choose a dedicated, finished space (e.g., basement or bonus room)
✔️ Ensure good ceiling height, quality equipment and lighting, design matters for resale appeal.
✔️ Combine it with other features (media area, gym, lounge)
✔️ Keep it visually cohesive with the rest of the home rather than a stark add-on.

If you are curious about a DIY golf simulator set up, I have opinions I’d love to swing by and let you know what I think. 

Looking for a professional installation in Calgary: SML Entertainment is proud to offer the best Golf Simulator experience with Full Swing Simulators. Check out their location at 6307 Centre Street S, Calgary, AB. (4 locations in Alberta).

The city of Calgary has several skating locations that are nicely maintained for leisure skating. 2020 brought two skating trails as a trial, and they have been maintained ever since (at Bowness and North Glenmore Park).  In addition to these parks, most communities in Calgary maintain an outdoor skating rink. Many have both a rink with boards as well as a small leisure skate area.

Outdoor rinks may open or close on short notice, it is best to check current ice status before you head out.

Big Marlborough Park

Skating rink.  Address: 6033 Madigan Dr. N.E.

Skating hours: 5 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily

Bowness Park

Enjoy free outdoor skating on the frozen lagoon and the scenic ice trail along the Bow River in Bowness Park, one of Calgary’s most beloved winter skating destinations. Crokicurl also available at this location.

Lagoon and ice trail.  Address: 8900 48 Ave. N.W.

Skating hours: 5 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily

Rentals: available; skates, ice bikes, helmets (rental availability may differ from skating hours)

Prince’s Island Park Lagoon

Downtown outdoor skate space on the Bow River, perfect for combination skating and exploring the park. Skate a full 1km loop. Fire pits.

Address: 4 St. and 1 Ave. S.W. (or 698 Eau Claire Ave SW)

Skating hours: 5 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily

Carburn Park

Skating pond with a fire pit and picnic benches. Public bathrooms.

Address: 67 Riverview Dr. S.E.

Skating hours: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily

North Glenmore Park 

Ice trail 750 meter and skating rink (small square in the middle of the skating loop). Crokicurl also available at this location. Fire pits. Pretty lights around the skating trail for evening skating. Public bathrooms. Hot chocolate!

Address: 7305 Crowchild Tr. S.W. 

Drive into the park, all the way to the West end. Several parking lot locations around the loop. 

Skating hours:  11 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily

Olympic Plaza  CLOSED FOR CONSTRUCTION!

Skating rink. Address: 228 8 Ave. S.E.

Skating hours: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily

Prairie Winds Park

Skating rink.  Two rinks (pleasure skating and ice hockey).

Address: 223 Castleridge Blvd. N.E.

Skating hours: 5 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily

Thomson Family Park

Smaller ice rink, it is a place to skate inner-city in the Beltline neighbourhood

Skating rink.  Address: 1236 16 Ave. S.W.

Skating hours: 5 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily

University District Central Commons Park

A large open refrigerated outdoor ice rink with nearby fire pits and convenient amenities.

Address: 4019 University Avenue NW

Skating hours: 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily (skate rentals some days, evening hours – check before you go)

Rentals: skates, helmets (rental availability may differ from skating hours)

sticks/pucks are not allowed

Leisure skating rinks:

The City of Calgary has over 50 adopted pleasure skating rinks which volunteers help flood and maintain throughout Calgary. Check out this list of locations. 

Map made by Ron Ron's Studio Dec 2024 (ronronsstudio.ca): 

Getting your home ready to sell doesn’t have to be overwhelming—but it does need to be intentional. The goal is simple: make your home appealing to the widest number of buyers while maximizing your sale price.

Whether you’re selling in a hot market or a balanced one, these steps will help you prepare your home to stand out and sell with confidence.

1. Start With a Pre-Sale Plan

Before cleaning or decluttering, get clarity.

Ask yourself:

• When do I want to sell?

• What is my ideal timeline?

• What budget do I have for preparation?

A local real estate agent can help you prioritize what actually matters for your specific market, so you don’t waste money or time. I’m happy to get together and discuss priorities with no pressure or commitment.

2. Declutter Ruthlessly (Buyers Want Space)

Clutter makes rooms feel smaller and distracts buyers from the home itself.

Focus on:

• Countertops

• Closets (buyers check them!)

• Shelving

• Garages and storage areas

• Declutter Your Home in Quick & Easy Steps

Rule of thumb: If you don’t use it daily, weekly, or monthly; pack it away in storage or donate it.

Less stuff = more perceived space.

3. Deep Clean Everything

A clean home signals that the property has been well cared for.

Pay special attention to:

• Baseboards and trim

• Windows (inside and out)

• Bathrooms and kitchens

• Floors and carpets

If possible, hire professional cleaners, it is one of the best returns on investment when selling.

4. Make Minor Repairs (Fix What Buyers Notice)

Small issues can raise red flags for buyers.

Fix:

• Leaky faucets

• Squeaky doors

• Loose handles

• Burnt-out light bulbs (making sure that the color of the light bulbs are consistent, warmer is better)

• Cracked tiles or chipped paint

• If the walls / cabinets are in need of a paint, this can be a little more money, however the return is worth it.

These low-cost fixes help prevent buyers from thinking that the home is not well cared for.

5. Neutralize and Freshen Up

Buyers want to imagine themselves living in your home.

Consider:

• Repainting bold walls in light, neutral tones

• Removing personal photos and collections

• Simplifying décor

Neutral spaces photograph better and appeal to more buyers.

6. Maximize Curb Appeal (First Impressions Matter)

Buyers form opinions within seconds.

Boost curb appeal by:

• Cutting the lawn and trimming shrubs

• Removing all clutter from the yard

• Power washing walkways and siding

• Adding fresh mulch and/or potted plants

• Ensuring the front door and windows are clean and welcoming

• Make sure it looks tidy and well kept

A great exterior sets the tone for the entire showing.

7. Stage for Flow and Function

You don’t necessarily need full professional staging (it does make a difference though).

Strategic styling helps:

• Rearrange furniture to create clear walkways

• Remove oversized or extra pieces

• Highlight natural light

• Add cozy but minimal touches (throw pillows, plants)

The goal is to make each room feel open, functional, and inviting.

8. Organize Storage Areas

Storage sells.

Buyers look inside:

• Closets

• Pantries

• Laundry rooms

• Garages

Keep these areas:

• Clean

• Organized

• No more than 70% full

This creates the impression of abundant storage.

9. Prepare for Professional Photos

Photos are often a buyer’s first showing.

Before photography:

• Turn on all lights

• Remove vehicles from driveway

• Hide garbage bins

• Make beds and clear counters

• Open blinds and curtains

Professional photos can dramatically increase online interest and showings.

10. Work With a Realtor Early

The best prep starts before the “For Sale” sign goes up.

A local realtor can:

• Recommend which updates matter most

• Help you avoid over-improving

• Create a preparation timeline (checklist)

• Price your home within the boundaries of the market

• advise if you need to get your RPR (real property report) ordered or updated

The right strategy can mean more money and fewer days on market.

Getting your house ready to sell is about creating a home buyers can fall in love with—without overthinking or overspending. Call me, I am happy to come by and talk. 403-585-5362 Chris.

Buying a home doesn’t start with house hunting, it starts with preparation. Taking the right steps before you begin can save you time, money, and stress later. If buying a home is on your horizon, here are 10 smart tasks to do now to set yourself up for success.

1. Check Your Credit Score

Your credit score plays a big role in the mortgage rate you’ll qualify for. Review your credit report early so you have time to correct errors and improve your score if needed.

Action Step: Pull your credit report and pay down high balances.

2. Create a Realistic Budget

Understand what you can comfortably afford, not just what a lender may approve.

Action Step: Factor in mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, and lifestyle expenses.

3. Start Saving for a Down Payment

The more you save, the more options you’ll have.

Action Step: Set up an automatic savings transfer dedicated to your home fund. First time home buyer: check out the Tax-Free Saving account (FHSA). $8,000 per year can be deducted from yearly income for tax purposes (as of 2026, check for updated amounts with your bank).

4. Build an Emergency Fund

Homeownership comes with surprises: repairs, maintenance, and unexpected costs.

Action Step: Aim for 3–6 months of living expenses in a separate account.

5. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Pre-approval strengthens your buying power and shows sellers you’re serious.

Action Step: Speak with a lender to understand your loan options and price range.

6. Avoid Major Financial Changes

Big purchases or job changes can affect your mortgage approval.

Action Step: Hold off on new credit cards, car loans, or career changes until after closing.

7. Research Neighborhoods and Home Types

Not all homes/locations are a fit for every lifestyle. Parks and recreation. Shopping convenience or acreage lifestyle. Single family vs townhome vs condo.

Action Step: Explore commute times, schools, amenities, resale value, and long-term needs. Create a checklist of your wants and needs we can talk about what areas fit your wants and needs the best. 

Browse listings and neighbourhoods:

• Unique Homes

• Acreage Homes

• Lake Communities

• Surrounding Areas

• Luxury Homes

• Small Towns around Calgary

• Fixer Upper

• Starter Homes

• Mortgage Helpers

• Condo Living

• Adult Living

Or by area:

• City Centre Calgary Homes for Sale

• E Calgary Homes for Sale

• N Calgary Homes for Sale

• NE Homes for Sale

• NW Calgary Homes for Sale

• S Calgary Homes for Sale

• SE Calgary Homes for Sale

• W Calgary Homes for Sale

8. Declutter and Organize Your Current Space

Downsizing or preparing for a move is easier when you start early.

Action Step: Begin decluttering one room at a time to simplify your future move. First time buyers start collecting household items, label bins clearly to track what you have and what you will need.

9. Learn the True Costs of Homeownership

Owning a home is more than the purchase price.

Action Step: Budget for inspections, closing costs, maintenance, and ongoing repairs.

10. Assemble Your Home-Buying Team

The right professionals make all the difference.

Action Step: Research and connect with a trusted real estate agent and mortgage broker.

Preparation is power. By tackling these tasks early, you’ll be confident, informed, and ready when the right home comes along. I am here to help you through the process, give me a call/text at any point for a no pressure conversation. Chris Marshall 403-585-5362

The Christmas season is one of the most powerful times of the year to stage and showcase a home. Buyers are emotional, families are thinking about new beginnings, and homes naturally feel warmer and more inviting. With the right staging strategy, you can use the holiday season to your advantage—helping your property stand out, create memorable first impressions, and attract serious buyers.

Here’s a complete guide to staging your home beautifully (and strategically!) for the Christmas season.

Why Holiday Staging Works

Holiday staging taps into emotion—and emotion is what sells homes.

• Warmth: Soft lighting, warm décor, and cozy textures make a home feel instantly inviting.

• Connection: The holidays spark nostalgia and help buyers imagine themselves celebrating future traditions in the space.

• Atmosphere: Seasonal scents, lights, and greenery create a welcoming ambiance during cold winter months.

The goal is not to overwhelm with decorations—but to enhance the home’s natural charm.

1. Keep It Simple and Sophisticated

Holiday décor should highlight your home, not distract from it.

Do:

✔ Choose a cohesive color palette (gold + white, green + wood tones, silver + blues).
✔ Use decorations that match your home’s interior design.
✔ Add subtle seasonal touches: garlands, wreaths, candles, and simple ornaments.

Don’t:

✖ Overcrowd shelves or counters
✖ Add oversized decorations that shrink the space
✖ Use loud, clashing colors

Remember: less is more when staging.

2. Create a Warm, Cozy First Impression

Your entryway sets the tone.

• A simple wreath on the door

• A clean doormat

• Soft lighting or lantern décor

• A small bench or winter greenery arrangement

The key is making buyers feel “invited home” from the moment they arrive.

3. Stage With Natural Elements

Nature-inspired décor feels elegant and timeless.

Try incorporating:

• Pinecones

• Fresh greenery or garland

• Birch logs

• Eucalyptus stems

• Wooden bead garlands

• Neutral-toned stockings

These details warm up the space without feeling cluttered or kitschy.

4. Use Lighting to Create Atmosphere

Winter means early sunsets—lighting becomes a powerful staging tool.

• Soft white fairy lights

• Warm-toned lightbulbs

• Flameless candles

• Strategic lamps to brighten dark corners

Avoid bright, multicolored Christmas lights. Soft white is universally flattering and calm.

5. Keep the Christmas Tree Minimal and Elegant

You can absolutely keep your Christmas tree—but keep it buyer-friendly.

Tips:

• Choose one color palette

• Avoid personal ornaments (family photos, kids’ crafts)

• Keep gifts under the tree minimal and tidy

• Make sure the tree doesn’t block walkways or windows

If space is tight, opt for a slim or tabletop tree instead of a full-size one.

6. Add Subtle Holiday Scents

Scent is a powerful emotional trigger.

Great winter staging scents include:

• Pine

• Vanilla

• Cinnamon

• Clove

• Cedarwood

• Orange spice

Use candles, diffusers, or stovetop simmer pots—but avoid strong artificial sprays.

7. Highlight Cozy Spaces

Buyers love imagining themselves relaxing during the holidays.

Stage intentionally:

• Add a throw blanket and textured pillows to the sofa

• Place a warm knitted blanket over an armchair

• Set up a simple hot cocoa or tea tray

• Add soft rugs for visual warmth

If you have a fireplace, make it the star—clean it, light candles inside, or turn on the gas flame during showings.

8. Keep Exterior Décor Clean and Welcoming

Winter curb appeal matters.

• Clear walkways of snow and ice

• Hang a tasteful outdoor wreath

• Add planters with winter greens

• Use warm white outdoor string lights (avoid flashing lights)

• Ensure house numbers are visible and lighting is sufficient

A beautiful exterior creates excitement before buyers even step inside.

9. Maintain Cleanliness Throughout the Season

Holiday décor can clutter a space quickly—so staying organized is key.

• Keep surfaces clear

• Store excess decorations

• Vacuum pine needles regularly

• Make sure the kitchen and bathrooms stay spotless

• Limit holiday crafts, wrapping stations, or bulky decorations

Clean homes show better—and sell faster.

10. Don’t Forget the Reason Behind Staging

Your decorations should enhance three key things:
✨ Space
✨ Light
✨ Flow

Every staging decision should support these priorities.

Holiday staging is a powerful way to make your home feel inviting, warm, and memorable to potential buyers. With the right balance of festive charm and thoughtful design, you can transform your home into a space that sparks emotion—and ultimately leads to a faster, more successful sale.

If done well, your holiday staging won’t just look beautiful—it’ll help buyers imagine their holidays there.

As the crisp air rolls into Calgary and the leaves turn golden, it’s time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. Fall is the perfect season to tackle maintenance tasks that protect your investment and ensure your family stays cozy all winter long. Calgary’s unique climate — with fluctuating temperatures, early snowfalls, and chinooks — makes a fall checklist especially important.

Here’s your Calgary-specific fall maintenance checklist:

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters & Downspouts

• Remove leaves, pine needles, and debris to prevent clogs.

• Check that downspouts extend at least 4–6 feet away from your foundation to avoid water pooling during snowmelt.

• Look for sagging or damaged sections that may need repair before heavy snow.

2. Service Your Furnace

• Book a professional furnace inspection and cleaning before the first deep freeze.

• Replace filters every 1–3 months for efficiency.

• Consider installing a smart thermostat to manage fluctuating Calgary temperatures.

3. Seal Windows and Doors

• Check for drafts around windows, doors, and baseboards.

• Apply weather-stripping or caulking where needed.

• Add door sweeps to keep cold air out and heating bills down.

4. Winterize Your Outdoor Plumbing

• Drain and shut off outdoor faucets.

• Store garden hoses indoors.

• If you have underground sprinklers, have them professionally blown out to prevent frozen pipes.

• Drain rain barrels.

5. Check Your Roof and Chimney

• Inspect shingles for curling, missing pieces, or damage after summer storms.

• Clear off branches and debris.

• If you have a fireplace, schedule a chimney cleaning to reduce fire risk.

6. Maintain Your Yard & Trees

• Rake leaves and aerate your lawn before the first snowfall.

• Fertilize with a fall formula to help grass survive the winter.

• Trim overhanging tree branches that could break under snow and damage your home.

7. Test Safety Devices

• Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

• Ensure you have a working fire extinguisher on each floor.

• If you use space heaters, check cords for wear and keep them away from flammable materials.

8. Inspect Your Insulation

• Peek into your attic for signs of leaks or insufficient insulation.

• Proper insulation not only keeps your home warm but also helps manage Calgary’s sudden temperature swings.

9. Prepare Winter Equipment

• Bring out shovels, ice melt, and snow brushes.

• Test your snow blower and schedule repairs if needed.

• Stock up on emergency supplies — blankets, batteries, flashlights, and a winter roadside kit.

✅ Final Thoughts

Taking the time in fall to prepare your Calgary home saves money, energy, and stress once winter hits. A little effort now means you’ll spend more time enjoying the cozy season and less time dealing with frozen pipes, furnace breakdowns, or icy sidewalks.