These smart cost-cutting moves gave family a bigger home they love

A Toronto couple found a way to move into a bigger home without breaking the bank. By making a few smart choices, they upgraded their space and stayed on budget. Their story shows that with some planning, it’s possible to stretch your dollars and still get what you want.

Lindsay and Greg, parents of two, were outgrowing their small semi-detached house. But with high home prices in the city, finding something larger seemed tough. Instead of jumping into the first big property they saw, they took their time and looked for ways to cut costs—starting with location. They chose to move to a neighbourhood slightly farther from downtown, which gave them more options within their price range.

Another key decision was buying a home that needed work. Instead of paying top dollar for a move-in ready house, they bought a fixer-upper. This allowed them to customize the space the way they wanted, without paying for someone else’s upgrades. Greg did a lot of the work himself, saving them thousands on renovations.

They also made trade-offs. They gave up a backyard in exchange for more interior space. For their lifestyle, having room for the kids to play inside and a home office mattered more than outdoor space. By focusing on what was most important to them, they avoided spending on features they didn’t need.

To stay within budget, they also avoided big furniture purchases. Instead, they reused what they had and added second-hand finds. This not only saved money, but gave their new place a warm, lived-in feel. Lindsay said this made the new house feel like home even before all the renovations were done.

Now, the family has the space they need, and they love their new home. Their story proves that with patience, smart choices, and a willingness to compromise, you can get more for your money—even in a pricey housing market.