# Smart Ways to Save on Buying a Bigger Home After Big Life Changes: How to Budget for a Larger Home in Ottawa as an Upsizer Big life changes, like a growing family or more space after the kids move out, are exciting. But they can also mean it's time to think about moving to a larger home. If you're looking to upsize in Ottawa, there's a lot to consider. The process doesn't have to be overwhelming or expensive if you budget smartly. This guide will help you plan and save as you look for a bigger place to call home. ## Understanding Your Needs First, it's important to know exactly why you need a bigger home. Maybe you need more bedrooms for your expanding family, or perhaps you're looking for more space to entertain guests. Knowing what you want will keep you focused and prevent unnecessary spending on features you don't need. ### Evaluate Your Current Situation Look at your current home and list what's missing. Is it the number of bedrooms, storage space, or perhaps the size of the kitchen? This will help you when shopping for a new home. It's also smart to think about your future needs. Do you expect more changes soon, like working from home, that could require additional space? ## Setting a Realistic Budget Budgeting is key when buying a new home. It helps you know how much you can afford to spend without stress. ### Review Your Finances Start by reviewing your finances. Look at your monthly income and expenses to determine what you can realistically afford. It's often recommended to spend no more than 30% of your income on housing, but this might vary based on personal situations. ### Factor in All Costs When budgeting, remember there’s more to consider than just the purchase price. You’ll need to factor in closing costs, property taxes, home maintenance, and potential renovations in your new home. ### Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage Before starting your home search, get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you a clear idea of how much mo ...