If you're thinking of moving up to a larger home, you're not alone—but lately, many sellers are telling me the same thing:
"The price gap between what I can sell my current home for and what I need to buy is just too much. It's stressing me out."
This is a completely valid concern, especially in a market where prices have shifted unevenly across home sizes and types. Upsizing can feel like a game of leapfrog where your next jump is just out of reach. But here’s the good news: there are ways to navigate this.
1. Start with a solid market analysis
Before making any decisions, get an accurate picture of what your current home could realistically sell for—and what the homes you want are actually selling for. I often find that sellers overestimate the cost of upsizing based on online listings, which don’t always reflect final sale prices or conditions. Let’s talk about actual numbers, not guesses.
2. Refocus on long-term value, not just the price gap
It’s easy to zero in on the difference between what you’ll sell for and what you’ll pay. But upsizing is usually about more than just square footage—it’s about improving your quality of life, having space for family, a better layout, or a new neighborhood. It’s a long-term investment. Thinking about how this move fits into your bigger financial and lifestyle plan can shift your mindset from “gap” to “growth.”
3. Leverage the equity you have
If you've owned your current home for a few years, chances are you’ve built up equity. You may be able to use that equity to help fund the down payment or renovations on your next home. A mortgage advisor can show you options for bridge financing, home equity lines of credit (HELOC), or blended mortgage solutions that soften the transition.
4. Get creative with your next home
Do you really need to go straight into your “forever home” right now? Could a home with potential in a great location work for now—with room to renovate and grow into over time? Could a multi-generational or income suite setup offset some of your costs? As your realtor, I can help identify properties that may not be obvious on paper but make a lot of sense financially and practically.
5. Consider timing strategies
In some cases, timing your sale for peak demand—or buying during a seasonal slowdown—can work in your favour. I help clients think through whether it's better to sell first or buy first, based on their comfort with risk, available inventory, and financing flexibility. Every situation is different, and the right strategy can make all the difference.
Yes, upsizing is a big financial move, and the price gap can feel daunting—but there are ways to make it work. The key is planning ahead, having honest conversations, and making decisions with the full picture in mind.
Thinking about a move, but unsure how the numbers would work? Let’s sit down and map it out. I’m here to help you plan—not pressure you to sell before you’re ready.