Coming Back to Toronto? Here Are 7 Practical Tips to Help!

If you follow the news, you might think that all (or at least most) interprovincial moves happen in one direction, from east to west. The big “Alberta is calling” campaign back has certainly inspired a lot of people to explore different parts of our gorgeous country.

Recently, though, we’ve noticed a new trend. Many people who headed to the west are eager to return to Toronto. Not that we blame them, of course. The beaches here are absolutely sublime!

It’s not just the waterfront, either. Toronto is a major player on the world stage for a reason: the economic outlook and quality of life here are unparalleled. If you, or someone you know, are considering a move back to Toronto, today’s blog is just for you!

Do you want to be the first to know about the latest East End real estate news and get early access to exclusive listings and weekend open houses? Get all the details straight to your inbox by subscribing to our newsletter.

1. Look at the Big Picture

Regardless of where you’re relocating to and why, moving from one province to another is a big project. Tried and true wisdom will help keep you on track and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed.

There’s a big journey ahead, but taking it one step and one day at a time will help. Remember all of the reasons you want to make this life change whenever you need a boost of inspiration.

Would four generations of real estate wisdom and local Toronto East End knowledge help you make the right choices when relocating? Here’s how Declute Real Estate helps all home buyers.

2. From Dreaming to Planning

The first step to an interprovincial move is deciding if it’s really something you want to do. It’s fun to imagine experiencing (or re-experiencing) a different part of the country. Still, almost no one packs up and moves on a whim.

Often, people choose to relocate to be closer to family, for school, for work, or – did we mention Toronto’s fabulous beaches? If you really are moving just for the adventure, we applaud your choice!

Whatever your reasons for relocating to Toronto, being sure of what you want and why is the first step. Next, it’s on to the practicalities. It’s time to create your grand plan that you can stick on your refrigerator to remind you of your goals and keep you on track.

3. Creating Checklists for Before, During, and After Your Relocation

Everything is about to happen all at once, and no, we are not referencing the hit movie from 2022! As soon as you make the decision to relocate across provinces, the chaos begins.

There are countless decisions to make regarding your timeline, where exactly to go, and what to do with your existing house. One of your first steps is simply in getting organized and gathering information.

Fortunately, modern technology can come to the rescue. You have note and reminder apps right on your smartphone to get you started. Or you can create a “relocation” folder on your desktop where you can keep track of your to-do list, write down all of your questions, and store digital copies of all of your important documents.

If you are old-school, a physical folder in a prominent place might be the better path. What matters is that you know where everything is and can access it quickly.

Moving from Alberta to Ontario and wondering what types of homes are available here in Toronto? Search here in our featured listings.

4. Take Care of Unfinished Business in Your Current Home

The countdown is on! But before you move, you’ll need a plan for your existing home. This decision is not problematic if you rent, hopefully on a month-to-month lease. Simply let your landlord know you’re leaving, and start packing up.

It gets more involved if you own your house. Now, you have some decisions ahead of you.

Should you sell your house and make a clean break?
Or should you keep it in your name and rent it out?

The second option can be ideal if you want the possibility of coming back. If you’re sure of your path, selling will give you greater access to liquid funds to empower your next steps.

Only you can decide. However, a knowledgeable real estate agent can present up-to-date facts and help you understand what they mean for your move.

5. Preparing for your Arrival in Toronto

Since you’ve lived in Toronto before, you may have an idea on where you want to settle upon your return. That said, your preferences may have changed, and it’s a different market now. The options below can help you through the final steps in your plan.

Schedule a visit before you move to tour some homes. This gives you an in-person feel for the current landscape.
If you can’t come physically, work with a local real estate agent to be your eyes and ears in the market. It’s not quite the same as being in here in person, but modern technology makes it a close second.
Sell your existing home in Alberta and rent in Toronto for the short term. This path isn’t for everyone, but it can take the pressure off if you’re not sure yet what you want.

Are you preparing for your house hunt in Toronto? The posts below will give you a head start:

6. Execute Your Moving Checklist

We’ve explored the big picture of what an inter-provincial move will look like. Now it’s time to take care of the practical details. These will be different for everyone, but this general checklist will point you in the right direction:

Gather all of your important documents in one place (driver’s license, health card, passport, etc).
Connect with a real estate agent sooner rather than later. Having an expert by your side facilitates every other step, and you can also pivot your strategy when needed.
Begin decluttering and cleaning as early as possible. You’ll eventually need to pack or discard everything. Starting now prevents this step from being overwhelming.
Check into local schools and catchment areas if you have school-aged children.
Consider forwarding your mail with Canada Post for the foreseeable future. That way, you don’t have to forget about any important correspondence.
Book your moving company as soon as you know your moving date. Don’t wait, as they can book up quickly.
Notify your utility and service providers about your upcoming relocation.
Pack an “open-first box” with everything you need immediately in your new home. Don’t put this one on the moving truck. Keep it with you so all your essentials are handy. This simple step will save a lot of aggravation!
Make arrangements for your pets, if applicable.
Register for a driver’s license and health card with your new province.

7. Your Well-Being Comes First

The next few weeks will be busy, and you may notice stress starting to take its toll. Self-care is important at this time, so be sure to reach out for support early and often.

Relocation can feel like a major undertaking, but a team of professionals and friends to help makes it much less stressful. With the weight off your shoulders, you’ll soon be overcome with excitement about your return to Toronto. Welcome back to the best city in the world!

Do you want personal support at every step in the relocation process? Get in touch with us today at 416.686.9618 or email info@declute.com.

Buying, Selling, or Have Questions?

We can help. Connect with our East End experts today!