Blog > Downsizing From a Markham Detached to a Condo: The Real Net-Worth Math
Downsizing From a Markham Detached to a Condo: The Real Net-Worth Math
Sell the 4-bed in Unionville at $1.6M. Buy a 2-bed condo at $850K. The number left in your account isn't what most retirees think. As Markham's top REALTOR® and CPA, I've guided hundreds of empty-nesters through this transition. Let's run the real numbers — beyond the sale price.
The Equity Unlock: What You Actually Keep
Downsizing feels simple on paper: sell big, buy small, pocket the difference. But in Ontario — with commission structures, land transfer tax, capital gains nuances, and condo fee math — the "leftover" number can surprise even financially savvy retirees.
The Quick Math (Surface Level):
Sell Unionville detached: $1,600,000
Buy Markham condo: −$850,000
"Profit": $750,000
The Real Math (After Costs):
That $750K shrinks to $580K–$640K after selling costs, buying costs, moving, and setup. And if capital gains apply? The number drops further. Let's break it down properly.
Step 1: True Net Proceeds From Your Detached Sale
Before you buy anything, calculate what you actually walk away with after selling your Markham home:
*Assumes mortgage-free home. If you have a remaining balance, subtract that from net proceeds.
🔍 Markham-Specific Selling Variables
- Commission Structures: Full-service representation typically 4-5% + HST on first $1M, 2-3% on balance. Discount options exist but may limit marketing reach.
- Legal Fees: Markham real estate lawyers (Kormans LLP, Weilers, etc.) charge $999-$1,800 + HST for seller representation.
- Pre-Sale Investments: Professional staging ($2,500-$4,500), minor repairs ($1,500-$3,000), and professional photography ($400-$800) typically increase sale price by 3-7% — often paying for themselves.
- Timing Impact: Selling in spring (March-May) vs. winter (Dec-Feb) can impact final price by 2-4% in Markham's seasonal market.
Step 2: True Cost of Your Condo Purchase
Buying a condo isn't just the purchase price. Here's what Markham condo buyers actually pay at closing:
Only provincial LTT applies (no municipal layer like Toronto):
• $850K condo = ~$13,750 provincial LTT
• First-time buyer? Rebate up to $4,000
• Seniors: No additional provincial rebate, but Markham's no-municipal-LTT still saves ~$13,750 vs Toronto
• Legal fees: $1,200-$1,800 + HST
• Title insurance: $250-$350
• Tarion warranty (new condos): ~$450
• Adjustment reserves: $500-$1,500
• Total closing buffer: ~$3,500-$5,000
Step 3: The Condo Fee Reality Check
This is where many retirees miscalculate. Condo fees aren't just "maintenance" — they're a permanent monthly carrying cost that impacts your retirement cash flow.
- Detached Home (Unionville, $1.6M value):
• Property tax (~0.65%): ~$867/month
• Utilities (gas, electric, water): ~$350/month
• Maintenance reserve (1% of value/year): ~$1,333/month
• Insurance: ~$175/month
• Total estimated monthly: ~$2,725 - Condo (Markham, $850K value):
• Condo fee (avg $0.75/sqft for 1,100 sqft): ~$825/month
• Property tax: ~$460/month
• Utilities (often partial): ~$125/month
• Contents insurance: ~$45/month
• Total estimated monthly: ~$1,455
Potential Monthly Savings: ~$1,270 ($15,240/year)
Condo Fee Warning: Fees rise 3-5% annually on average. A $825/month fee today could be $1,200+/month in 10 years. Always review the condo corporation's reserve fund study and historical fee increases before buying.
Special Assessments: Older buildings may face major repairs (roof, elevator, windows) funded by one-time special assessments of $5,000-$25,000+ per unit. Ask your lawyer to review status certificates carefully.
Capital Gains: The Silent Variable
If your Unionville home was your principal residence for every year you owned it, the sale is tax-free under CRA's Principal Residence Exemption (PRE). But complications arise if:
- You rented out part of the home and claimed CCA (capital cost allowance)
- You owned the property for 20 years but only lived in it for 15
- You inherited the property and later sold it
- You used a portion exclusively for business
| Scenario | Potential Taxable Gain | Estimated Tax Impact* |
|---|---|---|
| Full PRE Claim | $0 | $0 |
| Partial PRE (15 of 20 years) | 25% of gain | $12K–$35K on $400K gain |
| Rental Suite + CCA Claimed | Recapture + 50% of gain | $18K–$55K+ depending on CCA |
| Inherited Property Sold | 50% of appreciation since inheritance | $8K–$30K+ depending on step-up |
*Based on Ontario marginal tax rates (40-53%). Actual liability depends on your income, province of residence, and other deductions. Consult a tax professional.
The Full Picture: Real Net-Worth Outcome
Let's combine all variables for a realistic downsizing scenario:
Lifestyle Tradeoffs: Beyond the Numbers
Financial math is only half the equation. Downsizing also impacts your daily life:
• No snow shoveling, lawn care, or exterior maintenance
• Enhanced security (concierge, cameras, controlled access)
• Walkable access to amenities, transit, healthcare
• Predictable monthly costs (no surprise repairs)
• Potential for travel flexibility (lock-and-leave)
• Less privacy (shared walls, hallways, amenities)
• Rules/restrictions (pets, rentals, renovations)
• Condo fee increases are inevitable
• Limited control over building decisions
• Potential for special assessments
Smart Downsizing Strategies for Markham Retirees
- Time Your Sale Strategically: List your detached home in spring (March-May) for peak buyer demand and optimal pricing.
- Pre-Approve Your Condo Purchase: Even if paying cash, get lender pre-approval to strengthen your offer in competitive condo buildings.
- Review Status Certificates Early: Have your lawyer review condo corporation financials, reserve fund, and pending litigation before making an offer.
- Model Fee Increases: Project condo fees at 4% annual growth over 10-15 years to ensure long-term affordability in retirement.
- Coordinate Closings: Structure your sale and purchase with a 30-60 day gap to avoid temporary housing costs or bridge financing.
Ready to Run Your Personal Downsizing Math?
Book a 30-minute downsizing consult — I'll show you the full math for your address and three condo options. As Markham's top REALTOR® with CPA designation, I'll model your equity unlock, tax implications, and lifestyle fit so you downsize with confidence.
🏆 Michael John Lau — Awards & Recognition
Michael John Lau is a licensed REALTOR® serving buyers, sellers, and high-net-worth clients in Markham, Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area. Downsizing calculations, land transfer tax, capital gains guidance, and condo fee estimates are based on data from Toronto Life, CIBC, Extra Space, RBC, CRA principal residence rules, and Markham condo market reports as of Q2 2026. Actual costs vary by property, lender, and individual circumstances. This guide does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. All retirees should consult with qualified lawyers, mortgage professionals, and accountants regarding their specific situation. Not intended to solicit clients currently under contract with another brokerage.
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