The equity release is the obvious part. Selling in a high priced market and buying here can leave a large sum free, and Statistics Canada consistently shows Saskatoon among the more affordable mid sized cities in the country for shelter costs. Property taxes, utilities and insurance are lower in absolute terms as well, which changes a fixed retirement income month to month, not just once.
The parts people underestimate are not financial. Winters are long and driving matters, so a home near medical services and family carries real value later even if it costs more now. Saskatchewan health coverage begins after you establish residency, and there is a waiting period, so line that up before you list rather than after you have a possession date.
If Saskatoon is already home and you are downsizing within the city, the same logic applies in miniature: the gain is the spread between what you sell and what you buy, and the sale side is the half you can influence. Joel Dyck's hand-reviewed valuation makes sure the improvements you made over the years are counted before the number is set.