By Leanne Mollica
Mortgage Broker | Mortgage Architects – Team Borle
Founder, My Mortgage Strategy
Serving Salmon Arm, the Shuswap, and British Columbia
When real estate headlines get loud, it’s easy to feel unsure about what to do next.
I’ve been hearing this question more and more lately:
“Our home value dipped, rental rates are down… should we sell and just rent for a bit?”
It’s a fair question — especially in a market that feels unpredictable.
But before making a major housing decision, it’s important to slow things down and separate emotion from strategy.
Let’s walk through a few key truths that often change the conversation.
A Dip in Value Isn’t a Loss Unless You Sell
Real estate markets move in cycles — they always have.
Some areas experience short-term pullbacks, others rebound quickly, and some take more time. A change in market value is just that: a change on paper.
A loss only becomes real if you sell into the dip.
If you’re staying put, fluctuations in value don’t necessarily impact your long-term financial picture — especially if your goal is stability rather than short-term timing.
Selling and Buying in the Same Market Is Often “All Relative”
This is a point that often gets overlooked.
If you sell and buy in the same market (for example, downsizing), market conditions usually affect both sides of the transaction.
- Yes, you may sell for less
- But you’re also likely buying for less
What tends to matter more than price alone are:
- transaction costs
- moving expenses
- timing and financing structure
That’s why it’s important to look at the full picture, not just headlines or sale prices.
Renting Isn’t Automatically the Safer Option
Renting can feel like a safer choice during uncertain times — but it’s not risk-free.
In many cases, renting means:
- no equity growth
- no mortgage amortization working in your favour
- limited control over rent increases
- less long-term housing stability
Selling a home to rent is rarely the financial shortcut people expect it to be. It may make sense in some situations — but it shouldn’t be a default reaction to market fear.
If You Can Afford the Mortgage, Staying Put Often Wins Long-Term
If the mortgage is still comfortably affordable, homeownership often provides more long-term stability than stepping out of the market.
That said, many homeowners are feeling renewal pressure right now because today’s rates are higher than what they had before.
Here’s the key thing to know:
Renewal Does Not Have to Mean “Straight Renewal”
If payments feel tight, selling isn’t the only option.
There may be strategies beyond a straight renewal that can help soften payment shock, such as:
- adjusting amortization
- restructuring the mortgage term
- changing product type
- consolidating debt where appropriate
Every situation is different, but this is where strategy matters far more than panic.
Big Life Decisions Deserve Math — Not Panic
Before deciding to sell, it’s worth asking:
- Is this a financial decision or an emotional reaction?
- Can we afford the payments with the right structure?
- Would renting truly improve our stability?
- Have we explored all financing and restructuring options?
These questions often change the entire direction of the conversation.
The Bottom Line
Short-term market fluctuations don’t automatically mean you should sell your home.
Your home is both:
- a long-term financial asset
- and a foundation for your life and stability
If you’re feeling uncertain, the best next step is clarity — not a rushed decision.
Let’s Look at the Numbers Together
If you’re considering selling, renting, downsizing, or approaching a renewal and feeling stretched, I can help.
I’ll run the numbers, walk you through your options, and give you a clear, strategy-driven picture so you can make a confident decision — without fear leading the way.
👉 Reach out anytime to start the conversation.