Upsizing in a Slower Market: A Homeowner’s Guide

Tanya Toye • February 26, 2026

When real estate markets cool and price growth slows, many homeowners assume it’s a bad time to make a move. But if you’re thinking about upsizing – whether for a growing family, lifestyle changes or you’re simply craving more space – a slower growth market can actually present unique opportunities.


The key is preparation and strategic planning. Following are some important things to consider when making a decision about upsizing.


Understand market dynamics

In a slower growth environment, home prices may be stabilizing rather than climbing rapidly. While this can mean your current home may not command the same premium it may have in a hot market, the property you’re buying is likely experiencing the same conditions. In many cases, the price gap between your existing home and the larger one you’re eyeing may narrow, making the move-up more affordable than expected.


You may also face less competition, fewer bidding wars and more negotiating power on your purchase.


Assess your equity position

Before making any decisions, review how much equity you’ve built up in your current home. Your available equity will impact your down payment, borrowing capacity and overall financial flexibility. A professional mortgage review can help determine whether you should port your existing mortgage (if this option is available to you) or explore new financing options.


It’s also important to factor in homebuying costs such as realtor fees, legal fees, land transfer taxes and moving expenses. These costs should be incorporated into your overall strategy.


Recalibrate your budget

Upsizing typically means a larger mortgage, higher property taxes, increased utilities and potentially higher maintenance costs.

In a higher-rate environment, affordability becomes even more critical. Work through detailed cashflow scenarios to ensure you’re comfortable not just with today’s payments, but also with potential rate changes at renewal.


Mortgage preapproval also provides clarity around your budget and strengthens your position when making an offer.


Think long-term

Real estate is a long-term investment. If the new home better supports your family’s needs and future plans, short-term market fluctuations become less important. Focus on lifestyle alignment and financial sustainability rather than trying to perfectly time the market.

Upsizing in a slower growth market isn’t about reacting to headlines. It’s about understanding your numbers, planning carefully and making a confident, well-structured move that supports your long-term goals.



Wondering if upsizing makes sense for you? I’m here to help weigh all your options. 604-788-8693 | tanya@tanyatoye.ca

Tanya Toye

Mortgage Broker

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The Rise of Multi-Generational Homebuying

By Tanya Toye • May 23, 2026
As home prices continue to challenge affordability, more families are exploring creative ways to make homeownership possible. One option that has been growing in popularity is purchasing a single-family dwelling together. For some families, this approach can create opportunities that may not have been achievable individually, while also offering practical support across generations. Multi-family homeownership is not a one-size-fits-all solution but, in the right situation, it can work extremely well. Parents helping adult children enter the housing market, siblings purchasing together or families combining resources to care for aging relatives are all examples of scenarios where shared ownership can make sense. In many cases, a single-family dwelling or full duplex tends to be the preferred property type for this arrangement. Whether the property is freehold or leasehold, these options often provide the flexibility, privacy and living space families are seeking. A full duplex, in particular, can offer a balance between shared ownership and independent living, allowing family members to live close together while still maintaining separate spaces and routines. Combining incomes and down payment resources may improve purchasing power and help families qualify for properties that better meet their long-term needs. Shared expenses such as utilities, maintenance, property taxes and mortgage payments can also reduce the financial pressure that many households are currently experiencing. Careful planning required Purchasing property jointly is a major decision and requires careful planning. It’s important for everyone involved to have open conversations about finances, responsibilities, future plans and expectations before moving forward. Questions around ownership structure, exit strategies, inheritance considerations and ongoing costs should all be discussed early in the process. Legal and financial advice can be extremely valuable to ensure everyone understands their rights and obligations. Lenders will also evaluate the overall application differently when multiple borrowers are involved. Income sources, credit history, debt levels and the intended use of the property all play a role in financing approval. Working with you mortgage broker can help families understand available options and how to structure the purchase appropriately. For some families, buying together may provide a practical path toward stability, affordability and long-term wealth building. While it may not be the right fit for everyone, it’s becoming an increasingly common strategy for families looking to support one another and navigate today’s housing market together. Wondering if multi-generational living is right for you? I’m here to help explain all your options. 604-788-8693 | tanya@tanyatoye.ca

Why a Mortgage Pre-Approval Protects Both Your Head and Your Heart

By Tanya Toye • May 20, 2026
Why a Mortgage Pre-Approval Protects Both Your Head and Your Heart There’s no denying it—buying a home is an emotional journey. In a competitive market, it can feel like you need to stretch beyond your comfort zone or bid above asking just to have a chance. That pressure can make it hard to separate what you want from what you can realistically afford. One of the biggest pitfalls buyers face is falling in love with a home that’s outside their price range. Once that happens, every other property seems like a compromise—even the ones that might have been a perfect fit otherwise. The best way to avoid this heartache? Get pre-approved before you start shopping. What a Pre-Approval Does for You A mortgage pre-approval gives you more than just a number—it provides clarity, confidence, and protection: Know your buying power : Shop within your true price range and avoid disappointment. Spot potential roadblocks : Uncover issues like credit bureau errors before you make an offer. Get organized : Learn exactly what documentation you’ll need so there are no surprises. Lock in a rate : Many lenders hold your rate for 30–120 days, giving you peace of mind if rates rise. Save yourself heartache : Protect yourself from falling for a home you can’t afford. Head vs. Heart Buying a home is about balance. Your head tells you what’s financially sound, your heart tells you what feels right—and both matter. A pre-approval helps bring those two sides together, so you can make confident choices without emotional stress clouding your judgment. The Bottom Line Looking at properties for fun is one thing—but if you’re serious about buying, a pre-approval is the smartest first step you can take. It sets realistic expectations, saves time, and protects your emotions along the way. If you’d like to explore your options and get pre-approved, I’d be happy to walk through the process with you. Let’s make sure you’re ready to shop with confidence.