Downsizing and seniors real estate agents
A downsizing real estate agent (often searched for as a “downsizing realtor”) helps people sell a family home and move to something smaller, a condo, a bungalow, a life-lease or retirement community, or a home closer to family. The sale is often the largest financial transaction in years, and it comes with decisions about timing, belongings and what to buy next that are as much personal as financial.
The agents listed here work with older homeowners and their families across Canada, including adult children selling a parent’s home and executors selling a home in an estate.
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Are you an agent? List here freeWhen to downsize your home
People usually downsize when the house becomes more work or cost than it is worth to them: stairs, a garden, a large property tax bill, a neighbourhood that no longer suits. Doing it before a move becomes urgent leaves more choice, of where to go, of when to sell, and of what to take.
The order of sale and purchase matters. Selling first gives certainty about the money but may mean a temporary move. Buying first gives certainty about the next home but means carrying two properties or relying on bridge financing. An agent and a mortgage broker together can map out both.
Selling a parent’s house
An adult child can only sign for a parent if they have legal authority, usually a power of attorney for property that is in effect, and the agent and lawyer will ask to see it. Involve the parent in the decisions as far as possible, and keep careful records, especially if siblings share responsibility.
Long-occupied homes often need work before they sell well. Ask the agent which repairs are worth making and which are better reflected in the price; extensive renovation rarely pays for itself in an estate or downsizing sale.
Selling a house after death
In an estate, the executor sells the home on behalf of the estate. Depending on the province and how the home was owned, the executor may need probate, or the equivalent court approval, before they can complete a sale; some executors can list and accept an offer before then, with a closing date that allows for it. The estate lawyer will advise on timing.
Vacant homes need attention: insurers often require notice and regular inspections, utilities must be maintained in winter, and the home should be secured. The executor also needs a value for the date of death for tax purposes; appraisers who do estate work are listed separately on this site.
Common questions
What is a seniors real estate specialist?
A real estate agent who has taken additional training in working with older clients, sometimes with a designation from a private education provider. A designation is not a separate licence. Ask who awarded it and what it involved, and check the agent’s registration with the provincial regulator.
Should I sell or buy first when downsizing?
Selling first gives certainty about the money but may require a short-term rental. Buying first secures the next home but may need bridge financing or a period of carrying both. Your agent and a mortgage broker can show you what each route costs.
Can I sell my parent’s house with power of attorney?
Usually, if you hold a valid power of attorney for property that covers the sale and is in effect. The lawyer handling the sale will need to see it. If there is no power of attorney and your parent cannot make decisions, a court-appointed guardian may be required.
Can an executor sell a house before probate?
Sometimes an executor can list the house and accept an offer before probate is granted, with a closing date set to allow for it, but whether the sale can close without probate depends on the province, how title is held and the buyer’s lawyer. Ask the estate lawyer before listing.